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Portola festival sound complaints fell 31% from 2024; Goldenvoice credited with adjustments
Summary
The Entertainment Commission was briefed that the fourth annual Portola Music Festival at Pier 80 produced 154 sound complaints in 2025, a 31% reduction from 2024, as Goldenvoice implemented lower limits, altered stage orientation and used additional sound inspectors.
Director Maggie Weiland updated commissioners on the Portola Music Festival debrief: the fourth annual festival, produced by Goldenvoice at Pier 80 in September, resulted in 154 total sound complaints — a 31% decrease compared with 2024, staff said.
Weiland credited Goldenvoice for operational changes that included maintaining amplified-sound limits 2 decibels lower than in 2023, optimizing stage orientation to direct sound upward rather than across the bay, using smaller distributed sound sources and employing real‑time electronic sound adjustments. The department deployed two sound inspectors on site throughout the weekend to respond to 311 and hotline data and to coordinate directly with Goldenvoice staff.
Weiland said the commission views the reduction as a measurable improvement though complaints remain significant and staff will continue to work with promoters on mitigation strategies.
