Irvine Quiet Hours Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

Irvine Municipal Code Title 4, Division 9 establishes the city's noise control ordinance. Section 4-9-202 designates the hours between 10 PM and 7 AM as the protected nighttime period during which any noise that is audible beyond the property line and that would disturb a reasonable person of normal sensitivity constitutes a violation. This standard is intentionally more restrictive than daytime provisions because Irvine's residential villages — including Woodbridge, Turtle Rock, Northwood, University Park, and the newer Great Park neighborhoods — are designed as quiet, family-oriented communities with homes in close proximity.

During daytime hours (7 AM to 10 PM), noise is evaluated against the city's ambient noise base levels by zoning district rather than an absolute prohibition. Residential zones carry a 55 dBA daytime baseline and a 50 dBA nighttime baseline. Activities that push noise levels above these thresholds at the receiving property line may be cited. Common quiet-hours complaints in Irvine involve amplified music, barking dogs, late-night pool parties, and mechanical equipment such as pool pumps and HVAC units. The Irvine Police Department handles noise complaints at (949) 724-7000 and typically issues a verbal warning on first contact, followed by a citation if the disturbance continues or recurs.

Irvine's status as a master-planned city with approximately 308,000 residents, extensive park systems, and top-rated schools contributes to strong community expectations around neighborhood quiet. Homeowners association CC&Rs in many Irvine villages impose even stricter quiet-hours rules than the municipal code, sometimes extending quiet hours to begin at 9 PM. Residents should check both city ordinances and their HOA rules for the most restrictive applicable standard.