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

Notwithstanding the provisions of Section 6.60.040, where the intruding noise source, as measured pursuant to Section 6.60.030, is a residential air conditioning or refrigeration system or associated equipment installed prior to July 1, 1980, the exterior noise level shall not exceed fifty-five (55) dB(A). The exterior noise level shall not exceed fifty (50) dB(A) for such equipment installed after July 1, 1980.D."Plainly audible" means any sound that can be detected by a person using his or her unaided hearing faculties. As an example, if the sound source under investigation is a portable or personal vehicular sound amplification or reproduction device, the enforcement officer need not determine the title of a song, specific words, or the artist performing the song. The detection of the rhythmic base component of the music is sufficient to constitute a plainly audible sound.E.The restrictions contained in Section 6.60.050(B)(1), (2) and (3) shall not apply to:1.Activities which are governed by conditional use permits or other permits issued by the county, if those permits expressly regulate or control the amount of noise or sound which may be generated by the activities which are governed by the permit;2.Unincorporated areas of the county within the east county area plan; or3.Unincorporated areas of the county outside the urban growth boundary, as defined by "Measure D" ("Save Agricultural and Open Space Lands Initiative of 2000").