Noise Rules: San Diego vs San Marcos
How do noise rules rules compare between San Diego, CA and San Marcos, CA?
San Diego and San Marcos have similar restriction levels.
San Diego, CA
San Diego County
STRO hosts must comply with San Diego's general noise ordinance (SDMC 59.5.0401) and the STRO Good Neighbor Policy. Guests must observe quiet hours (10 PM-7 AM). Hosts are responsible for informing guests of noise rules and may face license revocation for repeated noise complaints.
View full San Diego rules →San Marcos, CA
San Diego County
Short-term rental guests in San Marcos must comply with the city's noise ordinance under Chapter 10.24. Quiet hours of 10 PM to 7 AM on weekdays and 11 PM to 7 AM on weekends apply to all properties including STRs. Hosts are responsible for ensuring guest compliance.
View full San Marcos rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | San Diego | San Marcos |
|---|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10 PM-7 AM (8 AM weekends) | - |
| Host Duty | Provide written noise rules to guests | - |
| Emergency Contact | Required posted in unit | - |
| License Risk | 3+ violations may revoke | - |
| Weekday Quiet Hours | - | 10 PM – 7 AM |
| Weekend Quiet Hours | - | 11 PM – 7 AM |
| Host Responsibility | - | Must inform guests |
| Repeated Violations | - | License at risk |
| Sheriff Non-Emergency | - | (760) 510-5200 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
San Diego FAQ
What noise rules apply to Airbnb guests in San Diego?
The same citywide noise ordinance applies: quiet hours 10 PM-7 AM, with decibel limits of 50/45/40 dBA by time of day. Hosts must provide guests written notice of these rules.
Can my STRO license be revoked for noise?
Yes. Three or more verified noise violations within 12 months may result in suspension or revocation of the STRO license by the City Treasurer's Office.
San Marcos FAQ
What are the noise rules for Airbnb guests in San Marcos?
STR guests must follow the same noise ordinance as all residents. Quiet hours are 10 PM–7 AM weekdays and 11 PM–7 AM weekends. Noise that disturbs neighbors at any time may result in citations.
Can a short-term rental lose its license for noise complaints in San Marcos?
Yes. Repeated noise violations at an STR property may lead the city to review or revoke the operator's business license. Hosts should proactively manage guest behavior and set clear house rules.
Who should neighbors call about noisy Airbnb guests in San Marcos?
Call the San Diego County Sheriff non-emergency line at (760) 510-5200 for noise complaints. You can also file a complaint with Code Enforcement at (760) 744-1050 x3234 during business hours.
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