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

Fullerton Municipal Code Chapter 15.90 establishes quantitative exterior noise standards by zoning district. The base levels are designed to preserve the acoustic character of each zone type. For residential zones, the standard is 55 dBA during daytime (7 AM to 10 PM) and 50 dBA during nighttime (10 PM to 7 AM). Commercial zones are held to 65 dBA regardless of time of day, and industrial zones to 70 dBA.

Measurements are taken at the property line of the receiving property — meaning the neighbor or affected parcel — using the A-weighted decibel scale with slow meter response. When the noise source property and the receiving property are in different zoning districts, the lower (more restrictive) standard applies. The code includes adjustment provisions for short-duration noise: sounds lasting 5 minutes or less in any one-hour period may exceed the applicable base level by up to 5 dBA, and sounds lasting 1 minute or less may exceed it by up to 10 dBA.

These quantitative limits primarily target fixed and ongoing noise sources such as HVAC equipment, pool pumps, compressors, generators, and commercial machinery. Transient social noise such as parties, music, and gatherings is typically enforced through the quiet-hours provisions rather than decibel measurement. Fullerton's downtown entertainment district, centered around Harbor Boulevard, generates frequent nighttime noise; however, the city has not adopted a special entertainment zone exemption, and residential properties adjacent to the downtown area are entitled to the standard residential decibel protections. Noise complaints and measurement requests can be directed to the Fullerton Police Department at (714) 738-6800.