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

Unlike many jurisdictions, Modoc County has no comprehensive noise ordinance with daytime and nighttime decibel tables by zone. A full-text search found only two code references to 'decibel' and zero to 'dBA.' The one enforceable numeric noise limit is in zoning Section 18.100.010, governing home occupations: 'No equipment or process shall be used in the home occupation which creates noise in excess of 55 decibels measured at the lot line (measured with a sound meter using the A-weighted scale and the slow response according to the manufacturer's instructions), vibration, glare, fumes, odors, dust, or electrical interference detectable to the normal senses at the boundary of the premises, or fire hazard.' The other 'decibel' reference is in Chapter 5.20 (sound trucks), where applicants must state the volume in decibels their equipment will produce, though Section 5.20.030 enforces audibility (within 100 feet) and a 15-watt power cap rather than a fixed dBA figure. Outside these contexts, there is no countywide decibel ceiling for residential, commercial or industrial noise. General noise complaints are resolved through the public-nuisance process in Chapter 8.20 and, for acute disturbances, California Penal Code Section 415. This reflects the county's rural character and reliance on case-by-case nuisance enforcement.