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

San Jacinto Municipal Code § 8.40.140 attaches a noise condition to the permit itself. Permits for heating, venting and air conditioning (HVAC) and pool/spa equipment in or adjacent to residential areas are issued only after the installation contractor signs an acknowledgment that the installation will meet the noise limits established in § 8.40.050. For residential air conditioner applications, the applicant can use the methodology in Standard 275, "Standard Application of Sound Rated Outdoor Unitary Equipment," of the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute (ARI), 1984, as amended. Applicants for mechanical permits for commercial HVAC equipment must submit a detailed acoustical study demonstrating compliance with the § 8.40.050 limits.

The limits the contractor is acknowledging are the stationary source standards. Measured on the affected property, single-family residential properties are held to 65 dBA from 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and 45 dBA from 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.; multifamily properties and mobile home parks to 65 and 50; and commercial property to 65 and 60. Indoors, the limits are 45 dBA by day and 40 dBA overnight. Noise is unlawful if it exceeds the applicable standard for any fifteen (15) minute period, and compressors or pool pumps that run continuously are measured against that period. Measurement follows § 8.40.160, with exterior readings taken in a private yard, patio, deck or balcony normally used for human activity at five feet above finish elevation.

Section 8.40.060(B) also requires acoustical studies for new discretionary projects that have the potential to generate noise above the chapter's standards. The city manager can grant a temporary waiver under § 8.40.200 for the time needed to correct a violation, which can include a commitment to place orders and enter contracts within thirty (30) days for repair or installation.