Upland, CA Noise from Specific Sources: HVAC & Mechanical Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Allowance above ambient base
- 5 dB(A) maximum
- Measurement point
- the property line
- Equipment covered
- pumps, fans, compressors, A/C units
- Residential night base
- 45 dB(A)
- Governing section
- UMC § 9.40.100(E)
Summary
Upland Municipal Code § 9.40.100(E) bars operating machinery, a pump, fan, compressor, or air conditioning apparatus in a way that pushes the noise level at a property line more than 5 dB(A) above the ambient base level set in Section 9.40.040.
E. Machinery, Equipment, Fans and Air Conditioning. It is unlawful for any person to operate, cause to operate or permit the operation of any machinery, equipment, device, pump, fan, compressor, air conditioning apparatus, or similar mechanical device in any manner so as to create any noise which would cause the noise level at the property line of any property to exceed the ambient noise base level by five dB(A).
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4480959; v4 updated 2025-09-22).
Full Breakdown
100(E), Machinery, Equipment, Fans and Air Conditioning, makes it unlawful for any person to operate, cause to operate, or permit the operation of any machinery, equipment, device, pump, fan, compressor, air conditioning apparatus, or similar mechanical device in any manner so as to create noise that would cause the noise level at the property line of any property to exceed the ambient noise base level by five dB(A). 040 table: 45 dB(A) at night and 55 dB(A) by day in residential zones, so a rooftop condenser or pool pump cannot push more than 50 dB(A) at the property line overnight or 60 dB(A) during the day before it is a violation. 030(C) makes clear equipment noise below the numeric threshold can still be cited as unnecessary or unusual if it causes discomfort or annoyance. 030(A).
Violations & Fines
Operating HVAC, pump, fan, or compressor equipment that exceeds the ambient base level by more than 5 dB(A) at the property line is a misdemeanor under Section 9.40.110, carrying a fine of up to $1,000, up to six months in jail, or both, with each day treated as a separate offense enforceable by Upland police.
Frequently Asked Questions
How loud can my air conditioner be at the property line in Upland?
Does the equipment noise rule apply to pool pumps and compressors too?
Who enforces HVAC noise complaints in Upland and what happens if I am cited?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Upland
California rules heatmap·Compare Upland to another location·View the California noise from specific sources overview
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