Imperial County, CA Noise Ordinances: Industrial Noise (2026)

Imperial County sets distinct sound-level limits for industrial and agricultural operations in unincorporated areas under Title 9, Division 7, Section 90702.00. Manufacturing and all other industrial uses, including agricultural and extraction industry, are limited to a one-hour average sound level of 70 dB at any time of day or night. General industrial uses are allowed up to 75 dB at any time. These limits are measured at or beyond the boundary of the property producing the noise, and where two zoning districts meet, the limit is measured at the property line between them. Because Imperial County is heavily agricultural, the ordinance includes important exemptions: Section 90702.00(F) provides that the sound-level limits do not apply to noise generated by standard agricultural field operating practices such as planting and harvesting of crops, noting that the County has a Right to Farm Ordinance (Ordinance 1031) that protects established agricultural practices against new development. However, agricultural and industrial operations that are not standard field practices must comply with the noise levels prescribed for General Industrial zones. Fixed-location public utility distribution or transmission facilities on or adjacent to a property line are measured at least six feet beyond the easement boundary. The general nuisance prohibition in Section 90703.00 still applies to industrial noise that is disturbing, excessive or offensive to a reasonable person. Large industrial projects, including the emerging Lithium Valley and renewable energy developments, may carry additional noise conditions through conditional use permits and CEQA mitigation.