Bakersfield Municipal Code Chapter 9.22 sets numeric decibel limits that vary by the zoning of the receiving property and the time of day. Typical limits are 50 dBA daytime and 45 dBA nighttime in residential zones, 60 dBA in commercial zones, and 70 dBA in industrial zones, measured at the property line.
Section 9.22 establishes the quantitative noise standards the city uses as a backstop to the general disturbance language. Daytime (7 a.m. to 10 p.m.) residential limits are around 50 dBA; nighttime drops to 45 dBA. Commercial zones typically allow 60 dBA, and industrial 70 dBA. The limit is applied at the boundary of the property receiving the noise, not the emitter, so a commercial operation backing to homes must meet the residential number. The code also uses short-duration allowances, permitting the L25 (level exceeded 25% of any hour) to exceed the base by 5 dBA, the L8 by 10 dBA, and the Lmax by 15 dBA, with a 5 dBA penalty subtracted from the base if the source is impulsive or tonal. Measurements must be taken with an ANSI Type 1 or 2 sound level meter on a slow response setting at a height between 4 and 6 feet. Ambient-noise adjustments are allowed when background levels already exceed the cap. Enforcement is by Bakersfield Code Enforcement under BMC 1.40 administrative citations.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Bakersfield code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
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