Fresno County, CA Noise from Specific Sources: HVAC & Mechanical Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Pre-July 1980 AC units
- max 55 dBA
- Post-July 1980 AC units
- max 50 dBA
- Overrides
- general § 8.40.040 day/night table
- Violation class
- infraction, not misdemeanor
- Max fine
- $200 per day (§ 1.12.020)
- Primary enforcer
- County Health Officer
Summary
Fresno County caps noise from air conditioning and refrigeration equipment at 55 dBA for units installed before July 1, 1980, and 50 dBA for units installed or in use after that date, overriding the chapter's general exterior noise table under County Code § 8.40.070.
Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 8.40.040 where the intruding noise source when measured as provided in Section 8.40.030 is an air conditioning or refrigeration system or associated equipment installed prior to July 1, 1980, the exterior noise level shall not exceed fifty-five dBA, except where such equipment is exempt from the provisions of this chapter. The exterior noise level shall not exceed fifty dBA for such equipment installed or in use after July 1, 1980.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 51).
Full Breakdown
040. 030, is an air conditioning or refrigeration system or associated equipment installed before July 1, 1980, the exterior noise level may not exceed 55 dBA. For equipment 'installed or in use after July 1, 1980,' the limit drops to 50 dBA. 060(F) (commercial or industrial AC/refrigeration noise within the limits of a current permit, license, or approval). 020(I) to include 'residential, agricultural, industrial and commercial machinery and equipment, pumps, fans, compressors, air conditioners and refrigeration equipment,' confirming HVAC units fall squarely within the chapter's reach. 120(A). Ordinance No. 24-021, adopted December 17, 2024, is the current codification.
Violations & Fines
Violating the § 8.40.070 HVAC noise ceiling is an infraction under § 8.40.120(A), punishable under § 1.12.020 by a fine of up to $200 per day the violation continues, with the county Health Officer as the primary enforcing authority rather than the Sheriff.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a specific noise limit for AC units in Fresno County?
Why does the AC unit's install date matter?
Is a noisy AC unit a misdemeanor in Fresno County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Fresno County
California rules heatmap·Compare Fresno County to another location·View the California noise from specific sources overview
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