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San Rafael, CA Noise Ordinances: Quiet Hours (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified June 2026

Quiet hours in San Rafael, CA, also called the noise ordinance, nighttime noise rules, or residential quiet time, define the hours during which excessive noise is prohibited.

Key Facts

Code
§8.13.040
Residential Day Limit
60 dBA intermittent / 50 dBA constant
Residential Night Limit
50 dBA intermittent / 40 dBA constant
Night Hours
10 p.m. to 7 a.m.

Summary

San Rafael Municipal Code Chapter 8.13 sets daytime and nighttime decibel limits enforced under §8.13.040. Daytime is 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.; nighttime is 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. In residential zones the daytime cap is 60 dBA intermittent / 50 dBA constant and the nighttime cap drops to 50 dBA intermittent / 40 dBA constant.

Chapter 8.13 of the Code sets limits on noise for daytime and nighttime hours. The Code establishes different levels for residential, commercial, industrial, and mixed use areas, as well as different standards for intermittent noise and continuous noise. In the case where two or more noise limits apply, the more restrictive noise limit will take precedence.

Source: San Rafael Muni Code Ch. 8.13 (Noise)View official code

Full Breakdown

The §8.13.040 General Noise Limits table establishes four zone categories, residential, mixed-use, commercial, and industrial, each with separate intermittent and constant standards for day and night. Where two limits apply (e.g., a residence next to a commercial parcel) the more restrictive limit controls. Section 8.13.030 separately prohibits 'loud or unusual noises' regardless of measured dBA whenever they disturb the peace of any reasonable person. Enforcement is by San Rafael Police and Code Enforcement, and the bail schedule lists both infraction and misdemeanor tiers.

Violations & Fines

Per the 2023 City bail schedule: §8.13.040 violations carry $100 base bail / $410 total as an infraction and $500 base / $2,050 total as a misdemeanor. Repeat or willful conduct may be charged as a misdemeanor.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between intermittent and constant noise?
§8.13.040 sets a higher limit for intermittent (short-duration) noise and a lower limit for constant (sustained) noise. Constant sources like compressors or HVAC are held to the stricter number.
Which zone limit applies on my block?
If your home is on the boundary of two zones, §8.13.040 applies the more restrictive of the two limits.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in San Rafael

Parking Rules: Overnight ParkingSome RestrictionsConstruction HoursSome RestrictionsAmplified Music & Outdoor SoundSome RestrictionsAircraft NoiseFew RestrictionsLeaf Blower RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Abandoned VehiclesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: EV ChargingSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Material RestrictionsSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Fence Permit RequirementsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Pet LimitsSome Restrictions

All San Rafael rules

How San Rafael compares: Cities with the Strictest Noise Ordinances·California rules heatmap·Compare San Rafael to another location·View the California noise ordinances overview

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