Gardena, CA Noise from Specific Sources: HVAC & Mechanical Noise (2026)

Section 8.36.070(11)(b) treats HVAC condensers, pool pumps, and other fixed motors as equipment that must be sufficiently enclosed or muffled at all times, not just overnight; unlike the 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. curfew that applies to power tools under subsection 11(a), this rule runs twenty-four hours a day. Gardena Municipal Code § 8.36.020 defines a Fixed Noise Source to include residential, agricultural, industrial, and commercial machinery and equipment, pumps, fans, compressors, air conditioners, and refrigeration equipment, the same category subsection 11(b) targets. The equipment must be maintained so it does not create a noise disturbance measured against the § 8.36.040 exterior standards, residential property is limited to 55 dB(A) average and 75 dB(A) peak by day, 50 and 70 dB(A) overnight, or the § 8.36.050 interior standards for a residential dwelling receiving the intrusive sound, 45 and 65 dB(A) by day, 40 and 60 dB(A) overnight.

If a homeowner complains about a neighbor's air conditioner or pool pump, the city investigates under the § 8.36.060 measurement procedure, using a calibrated sound level meter positioned at the receiver's property or, for an interior complaint, inside the affected unit at least four feet from the nearest wall, ceiling, or floor.