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Noise from Specific Sources

Noise from Specific Sources in San Diego, CA: What Residents Actually Need to Know

By CityRuleLookup Editorial Team

If you live in San Diego or are thinking about moving there, noise from specific sources are one of those things you probably won't think about until they affect you directly. San Diego has 2 specific rules on the books covering different aspects of noise from specific sources, and some of them might surprise you.

Construction Equipment Noise

San Diego Municipal Code §59.5.0404 limits construction equipment noise to an average 75 dBA at property line during permitted hours, and bars all construction noise on Sundays, federal holidays, and weekday hours outside 7am to 7pm.

Key details: Limit: 75 dBA Leq at property line. Hours: Mon-Sat 7am-7pm. Sunday/holiday: Generally prohibited. Code section: SDMC §59.5.0404. Variance: Noise Abatement Officer.

Construction noise violations are misdemeanors under SDMC §12.0202 with fines up to $1,000 per day and potential stop-work orders. The Development Services Department can hold building permits, and chronic violators can be referred to the City Attorney for civil injunction.

Airport Engine Run-up

San Diego International Airport operates an FAR Part 150 Noise Compatibility Program with a voluntary nighttime curfew (11:30pm-6:30am), restricted run-up locations, and mandatory engine run-up permits issued by the Airport Authority Noise Office.

Key details: Program: FAR Part 150. Curfew: 11:30pm-6:30am. Curfew fine: Up to $10,000. Run-up: Permit required. Operator: SD County Airport Authority.

Curfew violations carry fines up to $10,000 per occurrence assessed by the Airport Authority. Unpermitted engine run-ups risk loss of airfield access privileges, civil penalties, and potential FAA enforcement for tenants who breach lease noise conditions.

The Bottom Line

San Diego's noise from specific sources rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming San Diego is broadly strict or permissive.

All of the above reflects San Diego's municipal code as of our last review. If you need specifics on fines, exemptions, or filing requirements, the detailed ordinance pages linked above have the full breakdown.