Pasadena Quiet Hours Rules (2026): What You Need to Know
Heavy RestrictionsKey Facts
The Short Version
Pasadena enforces strict noise limits with residential quiet hours from 9 PM to 7 AM on weekdays and 9 PM to 8 AM on weekends and holidays. Residential zones are limited to 55 dBA during the day and 45 dBA at night. Pasadena is known for particularly rigorous noise enforcement, especially in neighborhoods surrounding Caltech and in the historic districts of Old Town.
Full Breakdown
Pasadena's noise ordinance under Municipal Code Chapter 9.36 establishes zone-based decibel limits and time-of-day restrictions. Residential zones (single-family and multi-family) carry a 55 dBA exterior limit during daytime hours and a 45 dBA limit during nighttime quiet hours. Commercial and mixed-use zones have higher thresholds of 65 dBA and 55 dBA respectively. Sound that carries a discernible tone, impulsive quality, or repetitive character triggers a 5 dB penalty, meaning the effective limit drops accordingly.
Section 9.36.060 specifically prohibits several categories of noise disturbance during quiet hours, including amplified music or speech audible beyond the property line, domestic power tools, and persistent animal noise. Pasadena takes noise complaints particularly seriously in its residential neighborhoods near the Caltech campus, the Bungalow Heaven historic district, and other landmark zones where the quiet residential character is considered a defining feature. Complaints are handled by the Pasadena Police Department non-emergency line and can also be reported through the city's online service request system.
What Happens If You Violate This?
First violation: administrative citation up to $250. Second violation within 12 months: up to $500. Third and subsequent violations: up to $1,000 per occurrence. Persistent noise violations can be prosecuted as misdemeanors with fines up to $1,000 and/or up to 6 months imprisonment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Pasadena's quiet hours?
What is the daytime noise limit in a residential neighborhood?
How do I report a noise complaint in Pasadena?
Sources & Official References
Related Ordinances in Pasadena
How does Pasadena compare?
See how Pasadena's quiet hours rules stack up against other locations.