Lake County, CA Noise Ordinances: Decibel Limits (2026)

Lake County's quantitative noise standard is Section 41.11 of the Zoning Code Performance Standards (Sec. 21-41). Maximum sound emissions for any use may not exceed the equivalent sound pressure levels (Leq, A-weighted scale) for any one hour stated in Table 11.1, applied beyond the property lines of the property containing the noise. The limits by receiving-property zoning district are: residential (including all agricultural and resource districts) 55 dBA from 7 a.m.-10 p.m. and 45 dBA from 10 p.m.-7 a.m.; commercial 60 dBA day / 55 dBA night; industrial 65 dBA day / 60 dBA night. Where the receptor is a dwelling, hospital, school, library, or nursing home - even in a commercial or industrial zone - Table 11.2 applies: 57 dBA day / 50 dBA night. Section 41.11(b) lowers the permitted level by seven decibels for noises of short duration or impulsive character such as hammering. Section 41.11(c) adds median octave-band sound-pressure limits (Table 11.3) for unusual periodic noises such as humming, screeching, and pure tones, with additional allowances of 5 dB (commercial) or 10 dB (industrial) under Table 11.4. Measurements are taken at the exterior lot lines (Section 41.2). The Planning Commission or Zoning Administrator may grant conditional exceptions through a use permit (Section 41.11(f)). These standards apply only in unincorporated Lake County.