Anaheim Decibel Limits Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Anaheim's exterior noise standards under Section 6.70.106 create a receptor-based system where the noise limit applicable to any source is determined by the zoning classification of the property receiving the noise, not the property producing it. Residential zones carry a daytime limit of 55 dBA (7 AM to 10 PM) and a nighttime limit of 50 dBA (10 PM to 7 AM). Commercial zones are limited to 65 dBA and industrial zones to 70 dBA, both at all hours. When the source property and the receiving property are in different zones, the receiving property's limit governs.

The ordinance provides specific measurement protocols. Sound level readings are taken at or near the property line of the receiving property using a Type II or better sound level meter with A-weighting and slow response setting. Measurements should represent a stable noise level over a reasonable sampling period. Ambient noise levels that already exceed the applicable standard due to traffic or other community-wide sources do not create a violation attributable to a single source; the city may use the measured ambient level as the effective limit in such cases.

Several exemptions apply. Emergency vehicles and warning devices, construction activity during the permitted hours of 7 AM to 7 PM Monday through Saturday, city-permitted special events (including Disneyland Resort events operating under conditional use permits), and temporary agricultural operations are not subject to the standard decibel limits. HVAC equipment, pool pumps, and other residential mechanical equipment that exceeds nighttime standards is a common source of neighbor complaints and Code Enforcement action.