The City of Orange caps fixed-source noise at any residential property: an hourly average of 55 dB(A) from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and 50 dB(A) overnight, under Municipal Code Section 8.24.040. Data-center chillers, generators, and cooling equipment must comply.
Chapter 17.20's noise standard (Section 17.20.270) directs all industrial uses to Chapter 8.24. Section 8.24.040 sets exterior standards for fixed noise sources measured at residential property: hourly-average 55 dB(A) daytime (7 a.m.-10 p.m.) and 50 dB(A) nighttime (10 p.m.-7 a.m.), with maximum levels of 70 and 65 dB(A). The Code defines a fixed noise source to include generators, air conditioners, refrigeration, compressors, and fans - the exact equipment a data center runs. Each limit drops 5 dB(A) for tonal or recurring impulsive noise, which the Code illustrates with cyclical generator noise. The standards protect residential receivers; the City sets no numeric limit for industrial receivers.
Fixed-source noise over the Section 8.24.040 limits at a residential property is unlawful and enforced by the City through citations, and can breach noise conditions placed on a conditional use permit.
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