Noise from Specific Sources in San Diego, CA (2026)
3 verified noise from specific sources rules for San Diego, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Bar & Nightclub Noise
San Diego bars and nightclubs holding a 2 a.m.-6 a.m. after-hours entertainment permit must observe every noise-abatement law in Chapter V, per SDMC §33.0810, letting the Police Chief attach noise conditions or pull the permit for violations.
San Diego Bar & Nightclub Noise Duty
Some RestrictionsSan Diego Municipal Code § 33.0810
The responsible person shall observe all laws applicable to noise abatement, particularly those contained in Chapter V of this Code.
Car Alarm Limits
San Diego caps how long a burglar alarm, including a car alarm, can blare. SDMC § 59.5.0503 bans any audible alarm that can't shut off on its own within 20 minutes, and lets police disconnect one themselves while it's sounding.
San Diego Car & Burglar Alarm Rules
Some RestrictionsSan Diego Municipal Code § 59.5.0503
(a) Audible burglar alarms for structures or motor vehicles are prohibited unless the operation of such burglar alarms can be terminated within 20 minutes of being activated. (b) Notwithstanding the requirements of this provision, any member of the Police Department of The City of San Diego shall have the right to take such steps as may be reasonable a...
Low-Frequency Bass Limits
San Diego treats bass you can feel as its own violation. Under SDMC § 59.5.0502(b)(2)(B), a sound amplifier that makes a person aware of vibration 50 feet from the source is a prima facie noise violation, at any hour of day or night.
San Diego Low-Frequency Bass Noise Rule
Some RestrictionsSan Diego Municipal Code § 59.5.0502(b)(2)(B)
The operation of any sound amplifier, which is part of, or connected to, any radio, stereo receiver, compact disc player, cassette tape player, or other similar device when operated in such a manner as to be plainly audible at a distance of fifty (50) feet and when operated in such a manner as to cause a person to be aware of vibration accompanying the sound at a distance of fifty (50) feet fro...
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County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement San Diego city rules.
Noise from Specific Sources in San Diego County →