Bakersfield sets no numeric decibel cap at the property line for cooling equipment or generators. Its noise ordinance (Chapter 9.22) is a nuisance standard: it is unlawful to make loud, unnecessary noise that disturbs the peace or annoys people within 1,000 feet (Section 9.22.030).
Unlike Kern County, which writes a 65 dB Ldn number into its zoning ordinance, the City of Bakersfield uses a nuisance-based noise standard with no fixed decibel limit for stationary mechanical equipment. Section 9.22.030 makes it unlawful to make or allow any loud, unnecessary noise that disturbs a neighborhood or annoys persons within 1,000 feet, judged by factors including noise level, background noise, proximity to homes, zoning, time, and duration. The only decibel figures in Chapter 9.22 govern amplified sound equipment (loudspeakers, PA systems), not chillers or generators. The M-1 zone additionally bars uses whose noise or vibration detrimentally impacts neighbors (Section 17.28.020.B). The General Plan's 65 CNEL residential compatibility threshold is applied through CEQA, not as an enforceable cap.
Cooling or generator noise that disturbs a neighborhood or annoys residents within 1,000 feet violates Section 9.22.030 and draws code enforcement; the noise and vibration impact test in Section 17.28.020.B can also be enforced as a zoning violation.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield Municipal Code Chapter 9.22 prohibits any loud, unnecessary noise that disturbs the peace or quiet of any neighborhood, or that causes discomfort...
Bakersfield, CA
Aircraft noise over Bakersfield, including operations at Meadows Field (BFL) and Bakersfield Municipal Airport (L45), is governed almost entirely by federal ...
Bakersfield, CA
Industrial noise in Bakersfield is strictly regulated under BMC Chapter 9.22, which sets zone-based exterior decibel limits and prohibits industrial properti...
Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield does not ban gas-powered leaf blowers citywide, but their use is constrained by the Bakersfield Municipal Code noise chapter and San Joaquin Vall...
Bakersfield, CA
Amplified music in Bakersfield is regulated under Bakersfield Municipal Code Chapter 9.22, which makes it unlawful to play a radio, stereo, musical instrumen...
Bakersfield, CA
Bakersfield Municipal Code Chapter 9.22 sets numeric decibel limits that vary by the zoning of the receiving property and the time of day. Typical limits are...
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