Santee, CA Noise from Specific Sources: Generator Noise (2026)

Section 5.04.040(B)(4)(a) makes it unlawful for any person to operate, or allow the operation of, any generator, air conditioning, refrigeration or heating equipment in a manner that creates a noise disturbance on the premises of any other occupied property, or, in a condominium, apartment house, duplex or attached business, within any adjoining unit. "Noise disturbance" is defined in Section 5.04.020 as any sound that causes discomfort or annoyance to persons of normal sensitivity residing in the area, and the chapter's noise level is measured in A-weighted decibels, with hourly time-averaged readings expressed as LEQ and peak readings as LMAX.

Section 5.04.040(B)(4)(b) separately requires that all generators, heating, air conditioning and refrigeration equipment comply with the setback and screening requirements elsewhere in the code, so a generator can be out of compliance either by causing a noise disturbance to a neighbor or by sitting in violation of the applicable setback and screening standard, independent of decibel level. Portable and standby generators used for construction are instead swept into the separate construction-equipment rules of Section 5.04.090, which cap powered equipment rated at 85 dBALMAX or louder to 10 consecutive workdays at one location before triggering a notice requirement to property owners and residents within 300 feet.

Section 5.04.030 resolves any conflict between noise provisions by applying whichever limit is more restrictive, and enforcement authority rests with the Director of Community Services as the designated Noise Control Officer.