Decibel Limits: Costa Mesa vs Huntington Beach
How do decibel limits rules compare between Costa Mesa, CA and Huntington Beach, CA?
Costa Mesa and Huntington Beach have similar restriction levels.
Costa Mesa, CA
Orange County
Costa Mesa establishes specific decibel thresholds under CMMC Title 13 that vary by zoning district and time of day. Residential zones allow approximately 55 dBA daytime and 50 dBA nighttime, measured at the property line of the receiving property.
View full Costa Mesa rules →Huntington Beach, CA
Orange County
Huntington Beach establishes exterior and interior noise standards under HBMC Chapter 8.40. The ordinance designates noise zones with specific decibel limits for residential, commercial, and industrial areas.
View full Huntington Beach rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Costa Mesa | Huntington Beach |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Day | ~55 dBA (7 AM – 10 PM) | - |
| Residential Night | ~50 dBA (10 PM – 7 AM) | - |
| Measurement | At receiving property line | At receiving property line |
| Code Section | CMMC §13-280 to §13-286 | HBMC Chapter 8.40 |
| Complaints | Code Enforcement (714) 754-5623 | - |
| Zones | - | Residential, commercial, industrial |
| Leaf Blower Limit | - | 70 dBA at 10 feet |
| Nighttime | - | Lower limits apply |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Costa Mesa FAQ
What is the noise limit for residential areas in Costa Mesa?
Residential zones allow approximately 55 dBA during daytime (7 AM to 10 PM) and 50 dBA during nighttime (10 PM to 7 AM) under CMMC Title 13.
How are noise violations measured in Costa Mesa?
Code Enforcement uses A-weighted sound level meters at the property line of the affected property. Adjustments apply for tonal or impulsive noise characteristics.
Are construction projects exempt from decibel limits?
Construction during permitted hours (7 AM to 7 PM weekdays, 9 AM to 6 PM Saturdays) is generally exempt from standard decibel limits.
Huntington Beach FAQ
What are the noise limits in Huntington Beach?
Limits vary by zone. Residential areas have the strictest standards. Leaf blowers are limited to 70 dBA measured at 10 feet.
How is noise measured?
At the property line of the receiving property using A-weighted sound level meters per HBMC Chapter 8.40.
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