San Francisco, CA Filming & Production: Production Noise (2026)

Film production noise in San Francisco is governed by the City Noise Ordinance (Police Code Article 29) in conjunction with Film SF permit conditions. Standard permitted filming hours are 7 AM to 10 PM. Film SF may grant extended-hour permits taking the Noise Ordinance into consideration, but productions must provide additional community notification for any work outside standard hours. All film notices must include the production company's phone number for noise complaints. Generators used on set must comply with noise limits and are typically required to be 'whisper quiet' models in residential areas. Amplified sound effects, music playback, and simulated gunfire may require additional approval and notification. Productions filming in residential neighborhoods face stricter noise expectations than those in commercial districts. The San Francisco Entertainment Commission may also have jurisdiction if amplified sound is involved. SFPD responds to noise complaints from filming and has the authority to shut down non-compliant productions. Film SF acts as a liaison between productions and affected neighborhoods to resolve noise concerns.