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πŸ”Š Noise Ordinances/Construction Hours

Construction Hours: El Cajon vs San Diego

How do construction hours rules compare between El Cajon, CA and San Diego, CA?

El Cajon has fewer restrictions than San Diego.

El Cajon, CA

San Diego County

Some Restrictions

El Cajon prohibits construction, maintenance, and repair work between 7 PM and 7 AM within residential zones or 500 feet of them. Leaf blowers, mowers, and power tools are included. Emergency repairs are exempt.

View full El Cajon rules β†’

San Diego, CA

San Diego County

Heavy Restrictions

SDMC Section 59.5.0404 prohibits construction noise between 7 PM and 7 AM on weekdays, all day Sundays and legal holidays. Saturday construction is permitted 7 AM to 7 PM. Maximum 75 dBA at residential property lines during the 12-hour permitted period.

View full San Diego rules β†’

Key Facts Comparison

FactEl CajonSan Diego
Prohibited7 PM-7 AM-
Buffer Zone500 ft from residential-
IncludesBlowers, mowers, tools-
EmergencyExempt-
Weekday Hours-7 AM-7 PM
Saturday-7 AM-7 PM
Sunday/Holiday-Prohibited without permit
Max Level-75 dBA at property line
Code Section-SDMC 59.5.0404

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

El Cajon FAQ

What are the allowed construction hours in El Cajon?

El Cajon prohibits construction, maintenance, and repair work between 7 PM and 7 AM within residential zones or 500 feet of them. Leaf blowers, mowers, and power tools are included. Emergency repairs are exempt.

Can construction work happen on weekends in El Cajon?

Prohibited: 7 PM-7 AM. Buffer Zone: 500 ft from residential. Includes: Blowers, mowers, tools. Emergency: Exempt.

San Diego FAQ

Can construction happen on weekends in San Diego?

Saturday yes, 7 AM to 7 PM. Sunday and legal holidays are prohibited without a special Construction Noise Permit from the Noise Abatement and Control Administrator.

What is the construction noise limit?

75 dBA average at or beyond residential property lines during the 12-hour permitted period (7 AM-7 PM) under SDMC 59.5.0404.

How do I get a permit for after-hours construction?

Apply for a Construction Noise Permit through the City of San Diego Development Services Department. You must demonstrate the necessity for after-hours work.

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