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

Generator noise has become a frequent issue with Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) events affecting parts of Temecula's wine country edge and the broader region's wildfire-driven grid management. The city's noise ordinance (TMC Chapter 8.32) generally applies generator noise as it does other equipment: residential property-line limits of 65 dBA day and 55 dBA night, with commercial zones higher. Two important contexts apply: emergency use during a declared power outage (utility outage, PSPS, weather-driven outage) is generally exempt from noise limits while the outage lasts, recognizing the safety necessity of backup power; routine or non-emergency operation (testing, regular use without grid outage) is fully subject to noise limits. Permanent backup generator installations (Generac, Kohler, etc., now common in Temecula homes) require Building Division permits, electrical permits, gas permits if natural gas fueled, and conformance with TMC 17.10 setback/screening for mechanical equipment. Acoustic enclosures and weather-rated cabinets often built into modern units help meet noise limits during weekly auto-test cycles, which should be scheduled during permitted daytime hours. Portable generators (gas, propane) for occasional outage use are legal but must be placed away from neighbor windows and used outdoors with proper CO ventilation. Construction site generators are subject to TMC 8.32 construction noise rules (7 AM - 6 PM weekdays, limited weekend hours).