How to file a noise complaint in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is a big city and when you have 10 million people living in relatively close quarters, noise is pretty much a given. That doesn’t mean, though, that you have to put up with neighbors who have no respect for anyone around them.

As a tenant in Los Angeles, you have the right to enjoy your home in relative peace and quiet.

So, if you have a neighbor who just won’t stop blasting their music at all hours of the night, here are a few tips to deal with the situation, including advice on filing a noise complaint in Los Angeles. However, before proceeding with filing the noise complaint…

Take a deep breath

This probably doesn’t sound like such great advice, but the truth is that if you march over to your neighbor in a rage, you’re not going to achieve much. Yes, the first thing you want to do is have a talk with them, but you need to be calm or it’s likely to degenerate into a huge argument, which won’t help anyone. Plus, it’s a good idea to arm yourself with information before you try to throttle your neighbor.

In California, every community has its own noise ordinance, and Los Angeles is no different.  Thus, Los Angeles’ Noise Regulation Ordinance sets out the rules in terms of what noise can take place, when it can take place, and how loud it can be.

For example, according to the Los Angeles Noise Ordinance, people aren’t allowed to operate loud equipment, like lawnmowers, between 10 p.m and 7 a.m. Furthermore, even during allowable hours, you can’t operate a lawnmower that is louder than 65 dB at a distance of 50 feet.

The ordinance is very specific and covers almost all types of noise pollution, so it definitely pays to take a good look. Especially since you might find that your neighbor isn’t actually violating the ordinance. The noise they’re making might be annoying. But if it doesn’t violate the regulations, then filing a noise complaint in Los Angeles won’t garner the results you want. In this case, you will have to rely on diplomacy. In other cases with excessive noise from air conditioners and party music, there are noise ordinances in place. When it comes to aircraft, say Van Nuys helicopters and private jets, larger government bodies like the FAA may get involved.

Remember where you live and compromise

You live in a city where there are all sorts of problems. Cities are noisy, there are plenty of pests, and you have to get used to the idea that you are never going to find a place that is completely quiet unless you invest in a ton of soundproofing materials.  Even then, it won’t be completely silent.  Living in such close proximity with so many other people means that it’s necessary to compromise and filing a noise complaint in Los Angeles isn’t always the best option.

That’s why it’s crucial to implement a personal investigation before renting an apartment in LA. 

Yes, your neighbor’s party might be driving you up the wall.  But if they only have a party a few times a year and the rest of the time, they are great neighbors, you might want to be a little more understanding. And if they have kids, do keep in mind that children will be children, and no matter how much they might want to keep their children quiet.  Just remember that in most cases, people aren’t making noise just because they want to annoy you. They’re just living their lives, which they are entitled to do just like you.

Plus, are you always as quiet and respectful as you think you are? If you really think about it, you might realize you aren’t.  So, before you file a noise complaint in Los Angeles, remember that your neighbors are entitled to the same rights. If you live in the center, you’re definitely going to have to deal with more noise.

So, if you really can’t handle the noise, you could consider moving to a quieter neighborhood or suburb.

How to file a noise complaint in Los Angeles in 4 simple steps

1. Identification of Disturbances

Try to determine where the noise is coming from and what type of noise it is. Is it from a neighbor’s party, construction work, loud music, or some other source? Keep in mind that when filing a noise report, the receiving authority depends on the source of the noise.

2. Document the noise

Keep a record of the disturbances, including dates, times, and descriptions of the noise. This documentation can support your complaint and provide evidence if needed. Here are a few ways to maintain documentation for a noise complaint in Chicago:

– Keep a written list of each event, including the date and time
– Record audio and/or video of the noise
– Make a note of any conversations you have with the offending party
– Save all written communications, such as emails, addressing the noise

3. Compliance with the Chicago Noise Ordinance

Familiarize yourself with Los Angeles’ Noise Regulation Ordinance, which outlines specific rules regarding noise levels, permissible hours, and acceptable activities. For instance, operating loud equipment like lawnmowers is prohibited between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m., and noise levels must not exceed 65 dB at a distance of 50 feet during these times.

4. Filing a noise complaint in Los Angeles

When filing a noise complaint in Los Angeles, it’s important to know who to file it with, which depends on the source of the noise.

According to the LAPD, the main organizations that deal with noise complaints include:

• The Police Department
• The Department of Building and Safety
• The Department of Animal Regulation
• The Bureau of Street Services

So, if you are having trouble with noise generated by a party or a loud TV or any other neighbor related noise, then it’s best to contact your local police station, which you can call at (877) ASK-LAPD (275-5273). Don’t call 911, though, because noise complaints aren’t considered emergencies.

If the noise is ongoing and the offending party does not seem to comply with the noise regulations an officer will forward your complaint to the Noise Enforcement Team who is trained specifically for these situations. You can reach LA Noise Enforcement Team at (213) 996-1250.

Note that if you are experiencing problems with someone else’s pet – like a dog that won’t stop barking – then you need to file a complaint with the Los Angeles Animal Care and Control Department. When filing a pet noise complaint in Los Angeles, you have to do it in writing and include some information.  For example, you should include your name, address, and phone number, a description of the problem, and the name and address of the owner of the animal.

Ask your landlord for help

Some leases have a noise clause in them, so make sure to check your lease.

If you do have such a clause and your neighbor is in violation of it, then get in touch with your landlord to ask them for help. Some landlords will help, and some won’t, depending on the severity of the situation.

If you really want peace of mind, your best option is to rent from a specialized company, like Blueground.

Not only do they offer some of the most stunning apartments in the best locations in L.A. but they can also help with troubleshooting tenant problems. Their Client Experience team is available by phone and will do their best to help you find a solution.

You can also contact them easily through their mobile app.

In conclusion

While noise pollution can be a serious concern, the fact is that you are never going to live in absolute quiet when you’re in a city with 10 million people. So, before filing a noise complaint in Los Angeles, you need to first consider a little compromise and a lot of diplomacies. You’ll often find that people don’t realize they’re being bad neighbors until you actually talk to them about the problem.

All in all, for other noise ordinance infractions and those related to businesses, it’s best to contact the excessive noisemaker.