Quiet hours in San Diego County, CA — also called the noise ordinance, nighttime noise rules, or residential quiet time — define the hours during which excessive noise is prohibited.
San Diego County Code of Regulatory Ordinances Section 36.404 sets noise limits by property zone and time of day. Residential zones: 50 dBA daytime (7 AM–10 PM), 45 dBA nighttime (10 PM–7 AM). Sound-level measurements taken at the property line of the affected property.
The County noise ordinance (Title 3, Division 6, Chapter 4) regulates noise in unincorporated areas. Section 36.404 establishes one-hour average sound-level limits (Leq). For residential zones: 50 dBA daytime and 45 dBA nighttime. For agricultural/rural: 50 dBA day, 45 dBA night. Commercial zones: 60 dBA day, 55 dBA night. Industrial: 75 dBA at all times. Impulsive noise measured at peak levels: 82 dBA residential, 85 dBA commercial/industrial. When ambient noise exceeds limits, ambient level becomes the standard. Short-duration noise under 15 minutes allowed +5 dBA above standard.
Violations of the noise ordinance are misdemeanors per County Code Section 36.414. Fines up to $1,000 and/or up to six months imprisonment. Code Compliance Division investigates complaints.
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See how San Diego County's quiet hours rules stack up against other locations.
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