7 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 7 cities in Alameda County, California.
Verified from official government sources
Alameda County noise ordinance (Chapter 6.60) sets detailed dB limits by zone and time. Residential nighttime (10 PM–7 AM): 45 dBA for 30+ min/hr, up to 65 dBA max. Daytime (7 AM–10 PM): 50 dBA for 30+ min/hr, up to 70 dBA max. 5 dB penalty for tonal/speech/music noise.
Alameda County unincorporated areas allow leaf blowers during general construction/maintenance hours. California AB 1346 bans the sale of new gas-powered leaf blowers statewide as of 2024, though use of existing equipment is not prohibited.
California Air Resources Board — Small Off-Road Engines (SORE) Program (AB 1346)
Small Off-Road Engines (SORE) are spark-ignition engines rated at or below 19 kilowatts. Engines in this category are used in lawn and garden equipment as well as other outdoor power equipment and specialty vehicles. Incentive programs are available throughout California to help you purchase zero-emission lawn and garden equipment.
Amplified music in unincorporated Alameda County must not exceed noise ordinance decibel limits or be plainly audible beyond the property line during nighttime hours. A special event permit is required for amplified outdoor events.
Aircraft noise around Oakland International Airport is regulated under FAA Part 150 and preempts local control. Alameda County participates in the Port of Oakland noise abatement program and land-use compatibility planning under the Airport Land Use Commission.
Industrial and manufacturing noise in unincorporated Alameda County is regulated through zoning-based decibel limits, conditional use permits, and CEQA analysis. Stationary sources must not exceed 70 dBA at industrial property lines or intrude into adjacent residential zones.
Alameda County Noise Element sets tiered decibel limits by zoning and time of day: 60 dBA daytime and 50 dBA nighttime in residential areas, with higher limits in commercial and industrial zones.
Outdoor music in unincorporated Alameda County requires compliance with residential decibel limits and typically a temporary use or special event permit for amplified gatherings over a set attendance threshold.
7 cities in Alameda County have their own noise ordinances rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
9 verified rules • Aircraft Noise, Amplified Music & Events
9 verified rules • Aircraft Noise, Amplified Music & Events
9 verified rules • Aircraft Noise, Amplified Music & Events
9 verified rules • Aircraft Noise, Amplified Music & Events
10 verified rules • Aircraft Noise, Amplified Music & Events
8 verified rules • Aircraft Noise, Amplified Music & Events
1 verified rule • Quiet Hours
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Alameda County Ordinance Hub →