Quiet hours in San Diego, CA — also called the noise ordinance, nighttime noise rules, or residential quiet time — define the hours during which excessive noise is prohibited.
San Diego enforces quantitative sound level limits under SDMC Chapter 5, Article 9.5, Division 4. Residential one-hour average limits: 50 dBA daytime (7 AM-7 PM), 45 dBA evening (7-10 PM), 40 dBA nighttime (10 PM-7 AM). Amplified sound audible beyond 50 feet is prohibited during nighttime hours.
SDMC Section 59.5.0401 establishes one-hour average sound level limits for residential zones: 50 dBA from 7 AM to 7 PM, 45 dBA from 7 PM to 10 PM, and 40 dBA from 10 PM to 7 AM. Weekend quiet hours extend the morning restriction to 8 AM. Section 36.414 provides a general prohibition against creating disturbing, excessive, or offensive noise. Sound trucks are limited to 65 dB at 50 feet and may only operate 8 AM to 9 PM, restricted within 100 yards of hospitals, schools, churches, and courthouses. The Noise Abatement and Control Administrator oversees enforcement. Complaints are filed through the Code Enforcement Division or non-emergency police line.
Misdemeanor punishable by fine up to $1,000 per violation. Repeat offenders face escalating penalties and potential nuisance abatement proceedings.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in San Diego County.
See how other cities in San Diego County handle quiet hours.
See how San Diego's quiet hours rules stack up against other locations.
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