The Resolution Path
1. Local Ordinance
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The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3Pasadena, CA
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"General noise limits are 5 decibels above the ambient noise level at the property line. Interior noise standards for multi-family residential are 60 dBA from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and 50 dBA from 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. Amplified sound cannot exceed 15 dBA above the ambient noise level at the outside property line. For permitted amplified sound events, maximum decibel limits are 65 dBA for residential zones and 75 dBA for commercial zones. In Old Pasadena, ambient noise levels are 60 decibels between 6:00 a.m. and 1:30 a.m. and 50 decibels between 1:30 a.m. and 6:00 a.m."
AI Executive Summary
Pasadena, CA's Noise Restrictions Ordinance (Chapter 9.36) prohibits excessive and annoying noises exceeding the ambient level by 5 dBA at property lines. General quiet hours are 10 PM to 7 AM. Specific regulations apply to construction, limiting activity to weekdays 7 AM-7 PM and Saturdays 8 AM-5 PM, with Sunday prohibitions. Amplified sound also has restricted hours and decibel limits.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
Construction and repair work in or within 500 feet of a residential district is permitted Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and on Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Construction is prohibited on Sundays and holidays. Powered construction equipment noise shall not exceed 85 dBA when measured at 100 feet.
Amplified Sound
The operation of sound amplifying equipment is restricted to 8:00 AM and 10:00 PM each day, except on Sundays and legal holidays where commercial use is prohibited. For non-commercial purposes on Sundays and legal holidays, operation is allowed from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, except for New Year's Day. Sound levels must not continuously exceed 15 dBA above the ambient noise level at the outside property line. Operation within 200 feet of a church, school, hospital, or city/county building requires written consent. In Old Pasadena, commercial amplified sound is limited between 6:00 PM and 1:30 AM.
Animals
The City's Noise Ordinance includes provisions for animals and fowl (Chapter 9.36.150). The Code Enforcement Commission hears cases regarding animal ordinance violations. Unreasonably annoying noises from dogs can be declared a public nuisance.
Vehicles
Vehicle repairs in residential areas are unlawful between 5:00 PM and 9:00 AM if they cause discomfort or annoyance to residents.
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