San Rafael, CA Noise from Specific Sources: Generator Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Generator noise cap
- 69 dBA at 7 meters
- Stationary-unit testing window
- 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. only
- Emergency/outage use
- Fully exempt from noise limits
- Governing sections
- SRMC §8.13.020, §8.13.070
- Enforcement
- Infraction or misdemeanor, §8.13.080
Summary
San Rafael caps portable and stationary backup generators at 69 dBA measured at seven meters under SRMC §8.13.020, and exempts emergency or power-outage use entirely, but routine testing of a stationary unit is allowed only 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. under §8.13.070.
"Portable generator" means any UL listed diesel or gas fired generator not connected to a building's electrical system and only intended to provide power during emergencies or utility power outages. Generators must not exceed 69 dBA during full speed diagnostics and normal operations when measured at seven (7) meters with no loads... Routine testing for stationary generators shall be conducted between the hours of ten a.m. (10:00 a.m.) and four p.m. (4:00 p.m.).
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 37).
Full Breakdown
SRMC §8.13.020 defines both "portable generator" and "stationary generator" with an identical technical limit: neither may exceed 69 dBA during full-speed diagnostics and normal operation, measured at seven meters with no load, and both must meet the mechanical-equipment setbacks in the Title 14 zoning ordinance. Section 8.13.070 exempts generator noise entirely when the unit runs during a declared emergency or a utility power outage. Routine maintenance testing of a stationary generator, however, is exempt only if conducted between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Violations of the noise chapter are enforced under §8.13.080 as an infraction or misdemeanor, or by administrative citation or civil action.
Violations & Fines
Running a generator above 69 dBA at seven meters outside an emergency or outage, or testing a stationary unit outside the 10 a.m.-4 p.m. window, violates Chapter 8.13 and is enforced under §8.13.080 as an infraction or misdemeanor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I test my home generator anytime in San Rafael?
Is a generator exempt during a power outage?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Rafael
California rules heatmap·Compare San Rafael to another location·View the California noise from specific sources overview
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