Maricopa County, AZ Noise from Specific Sources: Generator Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing law
- Maricopa County Ordinance P-23
- Trigger
- Audible inside home within 500 feet
- First-offense fine
- $300, rising to $750
- Applies to
- Unincorporated Maricopa County only
- Enforced by
- County administrator / Sheriff's Office
Summary
Maricopa County's noise ordinance bans generator noise reaching neighboring homes: if generator sound is audible from inside a closed residential structure within 500 feet of your property line in unincorporated areas, it's a violation.
It shall be unlawful for any person to cause, or for any person in possession of property to allow to originate from the property, any noise which disturbs the peace or quiet of any neighborhood if such noise can be heard from within closed residential structures located within 500 feet of the boundary of the property from which such noise emanates.
Full Breakdown
Maricopa County Ordinance P-23 prohibits noise from any source that disturbs the peace of a neighborhood if it can be heard inside a closed residential structure within 500 feet of the property line where it originates. Generators are not on the ordinance's exemption list, unlike HVAC equipment and pool pumps, which are excused when running per manufacturer specs. The county administrator (including the Sheriff's Office) can issue a written warning first; if the noise doesn't stop, violators face misdemeanor charges. The rule applies only in unincorporated Maricopa County, not in cities like Phoenix or Mesa.
Violations & Fines
Misdemeanor citation from the County Sheriff's Office; fines of $300 for a first offense, $500 for a second, and $750 for a third and each day after counts as a separate violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are backup generators exempt from Maricopa County's noise rules?
What happens if I don't stop running a noisy generator after a warning?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Maricopa County
Compare Maricopa County to another location·View the Arizona noise from specific sources overview
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