San Leandro Municipal Code Title 4 (Public Welfare), Chapter 4-1, Article 11 regulates noise based on a relative standard rather than fixed absolute dBA limits. Radio, television, audio equipment, drums, and similar devices are unlawful when they exceed the ambient noise level on adjacent property by more than five (5) decibels.
Unlike many California cities that publish fixed daytime/nighttime dBA limits by zone, San Leandro's noise ordinance (SLMC 4-1-1100 through 4-1-1140) uses an ambient-plus-5-dB standard for amplified sound and musical instruments. The standard is measured at the property line of the receiving property. The General Plan Noise Element (Chapter 4-10 of the General Plan) establishes a 60 dBA Ldn 'normally acceptable' threshold for residential land uses, but this is a planning compatibility standard rather than a directly enforceable nuisance limit. The Police Department typically enforces the ambient-plus-5 rule with a calibrated Type 2 sound level meter or by qualitative officer observation that the sound is 'plainly audible' beyond the property line.
A first violation is generally an infraction with a fine of up to $100 under California Government Code 36900 and SLMC Title 1 general penalty provisions; a second offense within 12 months may be charged as a misdemeanor with fines up to $1,000 or six months in jail. Continuing violations may be abated as a public nuisance under SLMC Title 1.
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San Leandro, CA
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