Standby and portable generators in Alameda County must comply with residential noise limits (50 dBA night, 60 dBA day) except during verified power outages. BAAQMD permits apply to larger stationary units.
Generator operation in unincorporated Alameda County is governed by the Noise Element and BAAQMD air quality rules. During normal conditions, generators used for testing or convenience must meet residential decibel limits at property lines. Weekly maintenance runs are typically allowed only during daytime hours (9am to 5pm) for up to 30 minutes. During a declared PG&E Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) or other verified outage, generators are permitted continuously for the duration of the outage. Stationary emergency generators over 50 hp require a BAAQMD permit under Regulation 2 Rule 1 and must meet CARB tier emissions. Portable generators should be placed at least 20 feet from neighbor windows and used with sound enclosures when possible.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
See how Alameda County's generator noise rules stack up against other locations.
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