Construction hours in San Mateo, CA — sometimes called construction noise rules or contractor work-hour ordinances — set when contractors can run power tools, hammers, and heavy equipment.
San Mateo limits permitted construction to 7 AM–7 PM weekdays, 9 AM–5 PM Saturdays, and noon–4 PM Sundays/holidays. Equipment cannot exceed 90 dB at 25 feet. Both the noise ordinance (§7.30.060) and building code (§23.06.060) apply.
SMMC §7.30.060 allows construction with a valid permit: weekdays 7 AM–7 PM, Saturdays 9 AM–5 PM, and Sundays/holidays noon–4 PM. Equipment noise cannot exceed 90 dB at 25 feet. SMMC §23.06.060 (Building Code) further restricts to 7 AM–7 PM weekdays, 9 AM–5 PM Saturdays, noon–4 PM Sundays/holidays. Construction inside a completely enclosed building is exempt if exterior ambient is not exceeded. Emergency work is exempt from both provisions.
Stop-work orders, citations, and fines for after-hours construction. Emergency work exempt.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in San Mateo County.
See how other cities in San Mateo County handle construction hours.
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