Pasadena, CA
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Pasadena, CA.
Ordinance 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.
Quiet Hours
General noise: 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM. Amplified sound: 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM (Monday-Saturday); 10:00 PM to 10:00 AM (Sundays and legal holidays for non-commercial). Construction: 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM (Monday-Friday); 5:00 PM to 8:00 AM (Saturday); prohibited all day Sundays and holidays.
Police Non-Emergency
(626) 744-4241Decibel Limits
"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."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Pasadena, CA code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
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.
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.
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.
Vehicle repairs in residential areas are unlawful between 5:00 PM and 9:00 AM if they cause discomfort or annoyance to residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
General noise: 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM. Amplified sound: 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM (Monday-Saturday); 10:00 PM to 10:00 AM (Sundays and legal holidays for non-commercial). Construction: 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM (Monday-Friday); 5:00 PM to 8:00 AM (Saturday); prohibited all day Sundays and holidays..
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: (626) 744-4241.
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Official Sources
Noise Solutions for Pasadena, CA
SolvedBest Gear for Pasadena, CA Residents
Ultrasonic Bark Control
Humane deterrent that emits a high-frequency sound when it detects barking.
Loop Quiet Ear Plugs
The "gold standard" for sleeping. Reduces noise by 24dB without the pain of foam plugs.
1/2" Thick Rug Pad
Essential for the "80% Rule." Adds density to rugs to absorb footfall impact noise for downstairs neighbors.
Hemp Calming Chews
Natural relief for dog anxiety. Perfect for separation anxiety barking or fear of fireworks.
ThunderShirt for Dogs
The best solution for anxiety-induced barking (fireworks, thunder, separation).
Marpac Dohm Classic
The original fan-based machine. Unlike digital loops, this creates real rushing air sound.
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