San Francisco, CA Noise from Specific Sources: HVAC & Mechanical Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Night limit
- 45 dBA, 10pm-7am
- Day limit
- 55 dBA, 7am-10pm
- Measured
- Inside neighbor's dwelling
- Enforcer
- Dept. of Public Health
Summary
San Francisco caps indoor noise from HVAC units and other fixed mechanical equipment at 45 dBA at night and 55 dBA by day inside neighboring dwellings.
In order to prevent sleep disturbance, protect public health and prevent the acoustical environment from progressive deterioration due to the increasing use and influence of mechanical equipment, no fixed noise source may cause the noise level measured inside any sleeping or living room in any dwelling unit located on residential property to exceed 45 dBA between the hours of 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. or 55 dBA between the hours of 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. with windows open except where building ventilation is achieved through mechanical systems that allow windows to remain closed.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-96: Codes: last updated to include changes made by legislation through Ordinance 133-26, File No. 260686, approved July 23, 2026, effective August 23, 2026).
Full Breakdown
Under the Police Code's Noise Control Ordinance, a fixed noise source such as an air conditioner, heat pump, or other mechanical equipment may not push the noise level measured inside a sleeping or living room of any dwelling on residential property above 45 dBA between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., or 55 dBA between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., measured with windows open unless the unit has mechanical ventilation allowing windows to stay closed. The Department of Public Health investigates noise complaints with human-health impacts and can require abatement.
Violations & Fines
DPH investigation, abatement order for the noise source, and administrative enforcement under Police Code Article 29; repeat violations can be cited as an infraction or misdemeanor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this apply to my rooftop AC unit?
Can I get a variance for loud equipment?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Francisco
California rules heatmap·Compare San Francisco to another location·View the California noise from specific sources overview
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