Hawthorne, CA Noise from Specific Sources: HVAC & Mechanical Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing sections
- HMC §§ 9.34.010, 9.34.030
- Daytime residential limit
- 60 dBA Leq, 7am-10pm
- Nighttime residential limit
- 50 dBA Leq, 10pm-7am
- First violation fine
- $250, plus $250/day continuing
- Enforcer
- Noise control officer / code enforcement
Summary
Hawthorne's objective noise ordinance names noisy HVAC and pool equipment as an example of the ongoing, stationary sources it targets, and holds them to the numeric exterior noise limits in § 9.34.030 rather than a separate case-by-case test.
This objective portion of the city's noise standard restricts noise from machines, animals, or devices (or any combination thereof) from producing noise that exceeds the specified, measurable noise limits (as summarized in Tables N-1 and N-2 below)...Such sources might include, for example, noisy HVAC or pool equipment, on-going loud music (over repeated instances), excessively and frequently barking dogs, or home/landscaping activities that are too early or too late in the day.
Full Breakdown
34 targets established, ongoing equipment noise using measurable limits so code enforcement officers can document a violation with a sound meter. m. If the source property differs in land-use type from the receiving property, the two standards are averaged. 050 using a Type 1 or Type 2 ANSI-compliant sound level meter at the complainant's property line, roughly five feet above ground and ten feet from reflective surfaces. 100.
Violations & Fines
Enforcement runs through the noise control officer under § 9.34.100: a written notice specifying the violation and a compliance deadline is issued first. Failure to correct it makes the violation an infraction punishable by a $250 fine for the first violation, plus an additional $250 for each additional day the infraction continues.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Hawthorne have a specific rule for loud HVAC units?
What decibel level can my neighbor's AC unit legally reach at night?
How is HVAC noise measured for a complaint?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Hawthorne
California rules heatmap·Compare Hawthorne to another location·View the California noise from specific sources overview
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