Amplified Sound Policy

Amplified Sound

Amplified Sound is defined as any sound that is broadcast through electronically amplified equipment or sound that is electronically enhanced.

  1. Outdoor events utilizing amplified sound must adhere to the Event Planning Policy outlined in Section 4 of the Campus Life Policies for event planning and approval. The Offices of Student Life (OSL) and Procurement & Contracts interpret, enforce, and monitor the Amplified Sound Policy on behalf of the university.
  2. With the assistance of the OSL and/or Procurement, the sponsoring organization is responsible for notifying the campus at least one (1) week in advance as to the dates, times, and types of activities to be presented. The appropriate departments, colleges, and administrative offices will be notified by email messages as part of the planning process.
  3. An Event Planning Meeting may be required as determined by OSL or Procurement as a means of assuring that event and amplification procedures and policies are understood prior to the event date. OSL or Procurement will notify the sponsoring organization of their required attendance at an Event Planning Meeting at least three (3) business days prior to the event date.

Sound Level Control

At a distance of 55 feet in front of the stage or speakers, the sound pressure level will be no more than 80 decibels utilizing the scale for outdoor performances. The Office of Student Life or Procurement staff will work with the individual(s) sponsoring the event to periodically monitor the sound decibel level.

In some instances, additional charges for staffing may apply. This matter would be addressed within the Event Planning Meeting with OSL and/or Procurement.

All requests for amplified sound must be approved by the Office of Student Life or Procurement.

The Office of Student Life, Procurement, and/or the appropriate university departments retain the right to monitor and/or limit the sound levels generated by amplification systems. Enforcement will be the responsibility of the Office of Student Life or Office of Risk Management staff. Compliance with the City of Carson Noise Regulations may also require performers to adjust the amplification levels of their equipment. Depending on location and setup, a lower decibel level may be required and will be determined and agreed upon within an Event Planning Meeting. Certain campus locations are not conducive to amplified sound. These locations include but are not limited to the ERC Forum and the South (Vendors') Walkway.

The performing groups and a sound amplification provider acknowledge their awareness of the sound policy by signing a copy of the CSUDH Performance/Vendor Agreement.

  1. If the sound level exceeds 80 decibels when measured at 55 feet, a warning may be given to the group to lower the volume.
  2. No more than one (1) minute will be allowed to correct the volume to an acceptable level.
  3. If a second warning must be issued, an additional one (1) minute will be allowed to correct the volume to an acceptable level.
  4. There will not be a third warning. If the volume level is exceeded a third time, the electrical power supply will be shut off and not turned back on. Groups should be advised that this process may damage their equipment and that the OSL and Procurement and/or the university assume no responsibility for repairs caused by this action.