Tehama County, CA Noise Ordinances: Construction Hours (2026)

In the unincorporated areas of Tehama County, construction noise is governed by Chapter 17.77 (Noise Control) of the county code, which took effect September 2, 2022. The ordinance includes exemptions for construction, repair and remodeling activities when they are conducted within specified hours, recognizing that building activity is unavoidable during normal working times. The county's general standard remains that no person may willfully make or continue excessive, unnecessary or offensive noise that disturbs the peace and quiet of a neighborhood. Outside permitted construction hours, and particularly during the county's defined nighttime periods (10 p.m. to 7 a.m. on weekdays and 10:30 p.m. to 8 a.m. on weekends), construction-related noise loses its exemption and can be treated as a violation. The ordinance also exempts agriculture and timber-related activities. For new development that generates noise near homes, schools, hospitals or other sensitive uses, the Tehama County General Plan Noise Element separately requires an acoustical analysis and compliance with adopted noise standards (Tables 9-6 and 9-7) before approval. Because the precise permitted construction hours are set within Chapter 17.77, residents and contractors should confirm the exact times in the current code text on Municode or with the Planning Department.