Long Beach Event Noise Permit & Ordinance Guide

Public Health and Welfare California 3 Minutes Read · published February 08, 2026 Flag of California

Long Beach, California event organizers must understand local noise controls before planning amplified sound, outdoor concerts, festivals, or street events. This guide explains when a permit or temporary use authorization is needed, who enforces limits, how enforcement and appeals typically work, and practical steps to apply, reduce risk of fines, and report problems.

Overview of Requirements

Events that use amplified sound, occupy streets or parks, or stage temporary structures commonly require one or more permits: a Special Event permit, Temporary Use Permit, and sometimes a noise or amplification authorization from city departments. Private-property events with high sound levels may also be subject to noise rules enforced by city code and police.

Penalties & Enforcement

Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.[1]

Escalation and repeat offences: not specified on the cited page; the municipal code and enforcement procedures should be consulted for classification of infractions and escalation.[1]

Non-monetary sanctions may include administrative orders to cease amplified sound, stop-work orders for unpermitted activities, seizure of equipment in warrant-supported actions, or referral to court for injunctive relief or criminal charges; specific remedies and procedures are set by municipal code and enforcement policy.[1]

Enforcer and complaint pathway: noise complaints and enforcement are handled by the Long Beach Police Department and City Code Enforcement; file a complaint through the Police noise services page or Code Enforcement intake as the city directs.[2]

If you receive a noise complaint onsite, stop amplified sound and follow officer or inspector instructions.

Applications & Forms

Typical permits and applications:

  • Special Event Permit or Temporary Use Permit for events on public property or that affect public rights-of-way, submitted to the city Special Events or Development Services office; fees and form names vary by event type and are posted by the permitting office.
  • Application fees and deposit requirements: not specified on the cited page; consult the permitting office fee schedule.
  • Contact/submission: most permits are submitted online or via the city permitting portal or Special Events office; see Help and Support / Resources below for links.
Apply early—major events often require multi-department review and security plans.

Common Violations

  • Amplified sound beyond allowed hours or decibel limits without a permit.
  • Failure to secure required street closures or neighbor notifications for large events.
  • Unpermitted use of public spaces or failure to comply with permit conditions (e.g., sound monitoring, crowd control).

How enforcement typically works

Enforcement begins with a complaint or proactive monitoring. Officers or code inspectors document violations, may order immediate corrective action, and can issue citations or administrative notices. Appeals and hearings procedures are defined by the municipal code or administrative hearing rules; where time limits exist for filing appeals, they are stated in the controlling ordinance or notice (not specified on the cited page).[1]

Action Steps for Event Organizers

  • Check permit requirements early with the Special Events or Development Services office.
  • Submit permit applications with sound plans, site maps, and neighbor notification details per city guidance.
  • Budget for application fees, possible sound monitoring, and mitigation measures.
  • Keep records of permits, correspondence, and any noise monitoring readings on site.

FAQ

Do I need a noise permit for an outdoor event?
If your event uses amplified sound or occupies public space it likely requires a Special Event or Temporary Use Permit; check city permitting guidance and code for specifics.[1]
How do I report excessive noise from an event?
Report noise complaints to the Long Beach Police Department non-emergency line or the city Code Enforcement intake as instructed on the police noise page.[2]
What if I disagree with a citation?
Follow the appeal or review instructions on the citation or administrative notice; exact time limits and procedures are set by the municipal code or the issuing department and should be checked on the official code or notice.[1]

How-To

  1. Confirm whether your event requires a Special Event or Temporary Use Permit by contacting the city Special Events or Development Services office.
  2. Gather required documents: site map, noise mitigation plan, security plan, and proof of notifications to neighbors.
  3. Submit the completed application and pay applicable fees through the city permitting portal or Special Events office.
  4. Respond to any departmental review comments, obtain required clearances, and comply with permit conditions at the event.
  5. If you receive a complaint or citation, follow orders from inspectors and file an appeal within the time limits stated on the notice.

Key Takeaways

  • Start permitting early and include a clear noise mitigation plan.
  • Maintain records of permits and sound monitoring during the event.
  • Use official complaint and permitting contacts to resolve issues quickly.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Long Beach Municipal Code - Noise Control
  2. [2] Long Beach Police Department - Noise services

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