Ventura County, CA Noise Ordinances: Decibel Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Covered equipment
- HVAC, pumps, generators, compressors, fans
- Siting rule
- Farthest practicable point from ESHA
- Alternative
- Shield with structure or solid wall
- Scope
- Near ESHA, unincorporated Coastal Zone
Summary
Rooftop and ground-mounted HVAC units, pumps, generators, compressors and fans near sensitive habitat in unincorporated Ventura County must be sited as far as practical from ESHA or shielded by a structure or wall.
Outdoor Equipment. When sound-producing outdoor equipment is proposed on a lot that could impact a nearby ESHA noise sensitive receptor, the equipment shall be sited and designed to meet the following standards:(1)Locate sound-producing outdoor equipment (e.g., roof/ground-mounted HVAC, pumps, generators, compressors, and fans) as far as practicable from the ESHA noise sensitive receptor(s) or locate the equipment in an area where existing or proposed structures or solid walls act as a noise barrier between the noise source and ESHA noise sensitive receptor(s).(2)Cooling towers for power facilities and other industrial uses shall be sited and designed to direct noise away from ESHA noise sensitive receptor(s). When feasible, cooling towers shall be sited in such a manner that nearby structures or equipment acts as a noise transmission barrier. See Section 8178-2.6.13(c) for construction noise standards.
(Ord. No. 4586, 10-19-2021)
*Noise standards in this Section only apply to temporary film productions that require a coastal development permit. For permitting requirements, see Section 8174-5.
Full Breakdown
Any sound-producing outdoor equipment proposed on a lot that could impact a nearby ESHA noise-sensitive receptor must be sited and designed to reduce that impact: locate HVAC units, pumps, generators, compressors and fans as far as practicable from the receptor, or place them where an existing or proposed structure or solid wall blocks the noise path. Cooling towers for power facilities and other industrial uses must be sited and designed to direct noise away from ESHA receptors. The standard applies to development in or near ESHA in the unincorporated Coastal Zone.
Violations & Fines
Installing HVAC units, generators or cooling towers without the required siting or shielding near ESHA is a coastal development condition violation the county can enforce through permit conditions or code compliance action.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need special siting for a backyard generator?
Does this apply to a factory in Oxnard?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Ventura County
California rules heatmap·Compare Ventura County to another location·View the California noise ordinances overview
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