Construction hours in San Diego, CA — sometimes called construction noise rules or contractor work-hour ordinances — set when contractors can run power tools, hammers, and heavy equipment.
SDMC Section 59.5.0404 prohibits construction noise between 7 PM and 7 AM on weekdays, all day Sundays and legal holidays. Saturday construction is permitted 7 AM to 7 PM. Maximum 75 dBA at residential property lines during the 12-hour permitted period.
Under SDMC 59.5.0404, construction equipment and activity creating noise is prohibited between 7 PM and 7 AM Monday through Saturday, and all day on Sundays and legal holidays. During allowed hours (7 AM-7 PM), construction may not cause average sound levels exceeding 75 dBA at or beyond residential property lines over the 12-hour period. Emergency utility work is exempt but must be reported to the Noise Abatement and Control Administrator within 48 hours. A Construction Noise Permit from Development Services is required for after-hours work and must demonstrate necessity. Equipment must have functioning mufflers and noise attenuation devices.
Fines up to $2,500 for severe construction noise violations. Stop-work orders may be issued for unpermitted after-hours construction. Repeat violations can result in permit revocation.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in San Diego County.
See how other cities in San Diego County handle construction hours.
See how San Diego's construction hours rules stack up against other locations.
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