Noise Ordinances in San Jose, CA (2026)

4 verified noise ordinances for San Jose, California, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.

Verified from official government sources

Quiet Hours

San Jose enforces residential noise limits of 55 dBA daytime and 45 dBA nighttime under SJMC Chapter 10.16, with quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM.

San Jose Quiet Hours & Noise Ordinance

Some Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Leaf Blower Rules

San Jose restricts gas-powered leaf blowers through state-mandated emissions rules and local noise limits. California's AB 1346 phases out sales of new gas-powered small off-road engines, and San Jose enforces noise standards under Municipal Code Title 20 when blowers operate outside daytime hours or exceed residential decibel limits near property lines.

Leaf Blower Rules in San Jose

Some Restrictions

California AB1346 (2021-2022 Session)

43018.11. (a) (1) By July 1, 2022, the state board shall, consistent with federal law, adopt cost-effective and technologically feasible regulations to prohibit engine exhaust and evaporative emissions from new small off-road engines, as defined by the state board. Those regulations shall apply to engines produced on or after January 1, 2024, or as soon as the state board determines is feasible...

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Decibel Limits

San Jose enforces numeric decibel limits under Municipal Code Chapter 20.100, with residential zones capped at 55 dBA daytime and 50 dBA nighttime measured at the receiving property line. Commercial and industrial zones carry higher ceilings. Exceedances of 5 dBA for any 15-minute period trigger violation, and sustained exceedances prompt Code Enforcement action.

Decibel Limits in San Jose

Heavy Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Outdoor Music

Outdoor amplified music in San Jose is regulated under the noise ordinance and the Special Events permitting process. Residential backyard parties must comply with dBA limits and quiet hours after 10:00 PM. Commercial venues hosting amplified outdoor music require a Special Events or Entertainment Permit through the Office of Cultural Affairs.

Outdoor Music Rules in San Jose

Some Restrictions

Full ordinance details →Official source ↗

Looking for Santa Clara County county-wide rules?

County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement San Jose city rules.

Noise Ordinances in Santa Clara County →