Sedona, AZ Noise from Specific Sources: Generator Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Emergency generator noise
- Exempt, SCC 8.25.030(A)(5)
- Authorized testing
- Also exempt
- Grouped exemptions
- Alarms, sirens, pressure relief valves, horns
- Non-emergency generator use
- Not exempt, standard dB limits apply
- Residential daytime cap
- 60 dB(A)
Summary
Sedona exempts emergency generators, along with safety signals, alarms, storm sirens and pressure relief valves, from its noise level regulations, including their authorized testing. Non-emergency generator use is not covered and can be measured against the standard decibel limits.
A. Exemptions. ... The following uses and activities shall be exempt from noise level regulations in this section, but may be subject to other city regulations, including but not limited to the regulations in the Land Development Code: ... ... 5. Noises of safety signals, warning and alarm devices, emergency generators, storm warning sirens, emergency pressure relief valves or horns and the authorized testing of such equipment;
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Initiative Ordinance 2026-01, approved by voters at the July 21, 2026 election).
Full Breakdown
030(A)(5) lists noises of safety signals, warning and alarm devices, emergency generators, storm warning sirens, emergency pressure relief valves or horns, and the authorized testing of such equipment, as exempt from the chapter's noise level regulations. 030(C), which cap noise at 50 dB(A) overnight and 60 dB(A) during the day in residential areas, and higher limits in commercial and industrial zones. 010 is to prohibit unnecessary, excessive and offensive noise, not noise tied to safety functions the city has already decided serves a public purpose.
020, work performed to prevent or alleviate physical trauma or property damage from an emergency or to restore utility service. 25 if they cause a documented disturbance.
Violations & Fines
A generator that is not an emergency backup unit, or that runs beyond authorized testing, loses the SCC 8.25.030(A)(5) exemption and is measured against the community noise standards in SCC 8.25.030(C); exceeding the applicable decibel limit for more than five minutes in a residential area is enforceable under the chapter's penalty section, SCC 8.25.070.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I run a backup generator during a Sedona power outage without a noise complaint?
Does testing my emergency generator count against Sedona's noise limits?
Is a portable generator I run for camping or a party exempt from Sedona's noise rules?
What decibel limit applies if my generator use isn't exempt in Sedona?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Sedona
Compare Sedona to another location·View the Arizona noise from specific sources overview
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