Noise Rules: Mountain View vs San Jose
How do noise rules rules compare between Mountain View, CA and San Jose, CA?
Mountain View and San Jose have similar restriction levels.
Mountain View, CA
Santa Clara County
Short-term rental guests in Mountain View must comply with the citywide noise ordinance, with quiet hours typically 10 PM to 7 AM and amplified sound restrictions that apply to any residence.
View full Mountain View rules →San Jose, CA
Santa Clara County
Short-term rentals in San Jose are subject to the same noise standards as all other residential property. SJMC Chapter 10.16 sets a quiet-hours period from 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., with reduced nighttime decibel limits at the property line, and STR operators must designate a local contact reachable around the clock to respond to noise and nuisance complaints under SJMC Title 20 Chapter 20.80 Part 2.5.
View full San Jose rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Mountain View | San Jose |
|---|---|---|
| Quiet hours | 10 PM - 7 AM typical | - |
| Host responsibility | Liable for guest noise | - |
| Amplified sound | Restricted at night | - |
| Complaint-driven | Police response standard | - |
| Repeat penalty | License review possible | - |
| Quiet Hours | - | 10:00 p.m. - 7:00 a.m. |
| Daytime Limit (residential) | - | About 55 dBA at property line |
| Nighttime Limit (1-2 family) | - | About 45 dBA at property line |
| Code Section (Noise) | - | SJMC Ch. 10.16 |
| STR Framework | - | SJMC Title 20 Ch. 20.80 Part 2.5 |
| Local Contact | - | 24/7 availability required |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Mountain View FAQ
Am I liable if my Airbnb guests throw a loud party?
Yes. Mountain View holds STR operators responsible for guest conduct. Repeated violations can lead to citations and license impacts.
Can I allow amplified music outdoors for guests?
Only during daytime hours and below disturbing levels. Outdoor amplified sound at night will typically violate the noise ordinance.
San Jose FAQ
What are San Jose's quiet hours for a short-term rental?
10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. citywide under SJMC Chapter 10.16. STRs are not exempt; guests must observe nighttime decibel limits at the property line, and amplified music that is plainly audible past the property line during quiet hours can be cited.
Does San Jose require an STR operator to handle noise complaints?
Yes. Under the Incidental Transient Occupancy rules in SJMC Title 20 Chapter 20.80 Part 2.5, operators must designate a local contact person available 24/7 to respond to noise and nuisance complaints. Repeated unaddressed complaints can lead to enforcement against the STR's authorization to operate.
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