Pasadena Outdoor Music Rules Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Pasadena Municipal Code Chapter 9.36 addresses amplified music and outdoor sound through its general exterior noise standards and specific enumerated prohibitions. During quiet hours (9 PM to 7 AM weekdays, 9 PM to 8 AM weekends and holidays), amplified music or speech that is audible beyond the property line of the source property constitutes a per se violation of Section 9.36.060. At all hours, sound-producing devices must not cause the exterior noise level at adjacent property lines to exceed the applicable zone standards — 55 dBA (daytime) or 45 dBA (nighttime) for residential receiving properties, with a 5 dB penalty for tonal or repetitive character.

For commercial venues in Old Town Pasadena and along Colorado Boulevard, outdoor amplified entertainment requires a Conditional Use Permit with specific operating hour and decibel conditions imposed as part of the entitlement. Many Old Town venues operate under Entertainment Permits that specify maximum outdoor sound levels and require acoustic barriers during evening performances. Private backyard parties with amplified music are not separately licensed but must comply with the ambient noise standards and quiet-hours rules. Large outdoor events (concerts, festivals, corporate events) on public property or in city parks require a Special Event Permit, applied for through the City Manager's Office, and may require independent sound monitoring during the event. The City often requires a professional sound engineer at large events to maintain compliance. For neighborhoods near the Rose Bowl — which regularly hosts concerts and sporting events — the City maintains a separate noise management protocol specific to stadium operations.