Noise Rules: El Cerrito vs Oakley

Are there fixed quiet hours for short-term rentals in unincorporated Contra Costa County?

No. Chapter 88-32 does not set a numerical decibel limit or a county-wide quiet-hours window. The operating standard is that excessive noise inconsistent with residential use is prohibited. The county also caps gatherings at 20 persons and bars weddings, conferences, and other commercial events at STRs.

Who responds to a noisy short-term rental complaint in unincorporated Contra Costa County?

The Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office responds to active disturbances and can cite under California Penal Code 415 (disturbing the peace). The local responsible party listed on the STR permit must also respond. Repeat complaints are forwarded to the Department of Conservation and Development for STR permit action under Chapter 88-32.

Do these rules apply inside cities like Walnut Creek or Concord?

No. Chapter 88-32 only applies in the unincorporated county. Cities like Walnut Creek, Concord, Richmond, Antioch, Pittsburg, San Ramon, and Danville set their own STR and noise ordinances, and many of those cities publish numeric quiet hours and decibel limits.

What are the quiet hours for an Oakley short-term rental?

Under OMC Chapter 4.2, sound-producing devices like stereos, televisions, and musical instruments cannot be operated between 10:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. so as to be plainly audible 50 feet from the source. STR guests are required to comply with these citywide rules under OMC Chapter 5.15.

Does Oakley require the STR owner to handle noise complaints?

Yes. OMC Chapter 5.15 requires the owner to be reachable 24 hours a day, seven days a week and to respond within 60 minutes to any complaint about noise or other guest conduct. Owner contact information must be posted in the unit and given to occupants before they move in.