San Bernardino, CA Noise from Specific Sources: HVAC & Mechanical Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- SBMC § 8.54.050(F)
- Residential allowed hours
- 8:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
- Non-residential allowed hours
- 7:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
- Covers
- Compressors, fans, similar devices
- No HVAC exemption
- Not listed in § 8.54.060 exceptions
- Backup standard
- General nuisance-noise, § 8.54.020(N)
Summary
Electrically operated compressors, fans, and similar HVAC-type devices in San Bernardino can only run during the city's controlled noise hours: 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. in residential zones, 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. elsewhere. Running one outside those hours is a code violation.
It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in the following activities other than between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. in residential zones and other than between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. in all other zones: ... (F) Operate or permit the use of electrically operated compressor, fan and other similar devices.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-2: Supplement contains: Local legislation current through Ord. MC-1666, passed 8-5-2026).
Full Breakdown
050(F) of the Noise Control chapter lists "operate or permit the use of electrically operated compressor, fan and other similar devices" among the activities restricted by the chapter's Controlled Hours of Operation rule. in all other zones," meaning operation is unlawful before or after those windows depending on the zone. 020(N) on any unreasonably loud noise judged case-by-case using factors like proximity to sleeping facilities and time of night. 060 do not list HVAC equipment among the exceptions; the only mechanical exemptions cover emergency machinery, park and recreation department equipment, public-utility work regulated by the state Public Utilities Commission, and construction under a written city agreement with noise mitigation measures. 020(N) if its volume, duration, or proximity to a resident's sleeping area is found unreasonable given the surrounding circumstances.
Violations & Fines
Operating a compressor or fan outside the controlled hours is punishable under § 8.54.080 as an infraction or misdemeanor per § 1.12.010, escalating from a $100 fine on a first offense to $200 and $500 for repeats within a year, with a fourth violation charged as a misdemeanor carrying up to six months in jail and a $1,000 fine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my air conditioner compressor run overnight in San Bernardino?
Does the noise chapter exempt HVAC equipment from the hours restriction?
What if my compressor runs during allowed hours but is still loud?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Bernardino
California rules heatmap·Compare San Bernardino to another location·View the California noise from specific sources overview
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HVAC & Mechanical Noise in Nearby Cities
How other cities in San Bernardino County handle hvac & mechanical noise.