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

Irvine Municipal Code Section 4-9-204 creates a tiered system of exterior noise standards based on land use zoning. For residential receiving properties, noise from neighboring sources may not exceed 55 dBA during daytime hours (7 AM to 10 PM) or 50 dBA during nighttime hours (10 PM to 7 AM) as measured at the residential property line. Commercial receiving properties have a baseline of 65 dBA, and industrial zones carry a 70 dBA baseline at all hours. When a noise source is located on a property with a higher baseline than the adjacent receiving property, the lower baseline of the receiving property governs.

Decibel measurements are performed using the A-weighted scale (dBA) with a slow meter response, consistent with standard acoustic measurement practices. The noise standards primarily target stationary mechanical equipment — air conditioning compressors, pool pumps, heat pumps, exhaust fans, and backup generators — that produce continuous or recurring noise. For context, 55 dBA is roughly equivalent to a normal conversation, while 50 dBA is comparable to moderate rainfall. These standards are particularly significant in Irvine given the density of the master-planned villages where homes, condominiums, and townhouses are built in close proximity to one another.

The city's noise ordinance also addresses specific noise sources separately. Leaf blowers and landscape maintenance equipment are regulated under Section 4-9-208, with gas-powered blowers restricted to weekday hours. The ordinance exempts emergency vehicles, authorized warning signals, and noise from city-permitted special events such as concerts at the Great Park or events at the Irvine Spectrum. Noise complaints can be filed with the Irvine Police Department at (949) 724-7000, and persistent equipment noise issues may be referred to Community Development code enforcement for long-term resolution.