The City of Sacramento is preparing to update its sound ordinance related to entertainment venues and events, following the release of a new report that highlights widespread gaps in how the City currently manages amplified sound in these settings.

The findings released by Sound Music Cities, an Austin-based firm specializing in music ecosystem studies and cultural policy, will serve as the foundation for legislative and policy changes expected later this year. This report is the product of phase two in a three-phase analysis focusing on entertainment related sound.

“This effort is about creating a more balanced, enforceable, and transparent approach to entertainment-related sound in one of California’s fastest-growing creative capitals,” said Dustin Hollingsworth, assistant director of the City’s Convention and Cultural Services Department. “Sacramento’s current sound rules don’t reflect the realities of our growing city. We’re planning ordinance updates that both protect residents and support a vibrant economy.”

The 21-page report marks the second phase of Sacramento’s entertainment sound policy project. It outlines several recommended reforms, including:

• Measuring sound at the property line of the source rather than at nearby homes;
• Requiring Sound Management Plans for all entertainment permits;
• Designating an Accountable Official to oversee sound compliance;
• Implementing a tiered permitting system based on proximity to residences and past compliance history.

The study also highlights a successful example: an April 5 electronic music event where organizers used real-time monitoring, outreach, and sound adjustments to reduce complaints. According to the report, this proactive approach demonstrates that effective sound management is achievable, even in dense, mixed-use neighborhoods.

Proposed ordinance language is expected to be developed in the coming months, with input from City departments, enforcement officials, and community members. Any changes to the ordinance would require approval by the Sacramento City Council.

“Our aim is to move from complaint-based enforcement to proactive, accountable planning,” Hollingsworth said.

Final legislative recommendations are expected to address sound thresholds, enforcement protocols, low-frequency mitigation, and neighborhood outreach requirements.

Continued community input encouraged

To build on earlier outreach, the City has launched a Feedback Form inviting residents and industry professionals to weigh in on the latest recommendations. The brief survey—designed to take five minutes or less—will help ensure final policies reflect real-world experiences and priorities across Sacramento’s neighborhoods and entertainment scene.

The feedback form will be available until July 30, 2025.

The Phase 1 and Phase 2 Sound Reports can be found online here.

The Feedback Form can be found here.