Newport Beach establishes specific decibel thresholds under NBMC Chapter 10.26 that vary by zoning district and time of day. Residential zones allow approximately 55 dBA daytime and 50 dBA nighttime at the property line.
NBMC Chapter 10.26 sets exterior noise standards for Newport Beach. Residential zones permit approximately 55 dBA during daytime (7 AM to 10 PM) and 50 dBA during nighttime (10 PM to 7 AM). Commercial and industrial zones allow higher thresholds. Noise is measured using A-weighted sound level meters at the property line of the receiving property. Adjustments may apply for tonal, impulsive, or repetitive noise characteristics. Construction noise during permitted hours (7 AM to 6:30 PM weekdays, 8 AM to 6 PM Saturdays, no Sundays or holidays) is generally exempt. Emergency equipment and city-authorized events also receive exemptions. Code Enforcement uses calibrated sound meters to document violations. Complaints go to Code Enforcement at (949) 644-3215.
Exceeding decibel limits at the property line constitutes a code violation under NBMC Chapter 10.26. Violations may result in administrative citations with fines, and repeat offenders face escalating penalties or misdemeanor prosecution.
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