Industrial Noise: Fresno vs Selma
How do industrial noise rules compare between Fresno, CA and Selma, CA?
Fresno and Selma have similar restriction levels.
Fresno, CA
Fresno County
Industrial noise in Fresno is capped by FMC §10-105 receiving-zone dBA limits: industrial zones allow up to 75 dBA at the property line, while any industrial operation that sends sound into adjacent residential zones must stay under the residential caps of 60 dBA day and 50 dBA night. Agricultural processing plants near Jensen, Central, and American Avenues are common complaint sources.
View full Fresno rules →Selma, CA
Fresno County
Selma applies the same 5 dB-over-ambient standard to industrial noise under SMC Chapter 17. The city has industrial and commercial zones along Highway 99 and the BNSF railroad corridor. Zoning under Title XI separates industrial uses from residential areas.
View full Selma rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Fresno | Selma |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Standard | - | 5 dB over ambient at property line |
| Industrial Zones | - | Hwy 99 and BNSF corridor |
| Protected Areas | - | Schools, hospitals, churches (6-17-7) |
| Air District | - | SJVAPCD regulates emissions |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Fresno FAQ
A food plant runs 24 hours next to my house. Is that legal?
Yes if the plant was permitted before the residential use, but noise at your property line still cannot exceed 50 dBA at night. File a complaint with Fresno Code Enforcement and request a decibel measurement.
Who enforces industrial noise in Fresno?
Fresno Code Enforcement and the Police Department under FMC §10-105. Planning Department reviews CUP compliance, and chronic violators can be abated as public nuisances.
Selma FAQ
What noise limits apply to factories in Selma?
The same 5 dB-over-ambient standard applies to all noise sources, including industrial operations. Noise is measured at the property line of the affected party under SMC 6-17-6.
Can I complain about packing house noise in Selma?
Yes. Agricultural packing operations must comply with the noise ordinance. Contact the Selma Police Department at (559) 896-2525 to file a complaint.
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