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

Some Restrictions
Last verified: February 28, 2026Source: Santa Clarita MC Chapter 11.44 - Noise Limits

Key Facts

The Short Version

Santa Clarita enforces noise limits with designated quiet hours from 9:00 PM to 7:00 AM. Residential zones are limited to 65 dBA during the day and 55 dBA at night. The city declares it policy to prohibit unnecessary, excessive, and annoying noises detrimental to the health and welfare of its citizens.

Full Breakdown

Santa Clarita Municipal Code Chapter 11.44 establishes exterior noise standards based on zoning and time of day. Nighttime is defined as 9:00 PM to 7:00 AM, during which residential zones must maintain noise levels at or below 55 dBA measured at the property boundary. During daytime hours (7:00 AM to 9:00 PM), the residential limit is 65 dBA. Commercial and manufacturing zones have higher thresholds at 80 dBA daytime and 70 dBA nighttime. At the boundary between a residential property and a commercial or manufacturing property, the noise level of the quieter zone applies.

Any noise exceeding the ambient noise limits by more than 5 decibels at the property line of residential land is deemed prima facie evidence of a violation. Adjustments apply for certain noise types: repetitive impulsive noise and steady whines receive a -5 dB correction, while intermittent daytime noise may receive +5 to +20 dB adjustments depending on duration. Loud parties involving two or more people that are disruptive to public peace due to noise, unruly behavior, excessive traffic, or illegal parking are specifically unlawful. After an initial written notice, recurrence within one year requires the responsible person to reimburse law enforcement response costs.

Noise complaints can be reported to the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff's Station at (661) 260-4000. The city's Community Preservation Division also handles ongoing noise-related code enforcement matters.

What Happens If You Violate This?

Noise violations are misdemeanors unless classified as infractions. Each day a violation continues constitutes a separate offense. Loud party violations may result in reimbursement of law enforcement response costs after an initial written notice, with escalating penalties for repeat offenses within one year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Santa Clarita's quiet hours?
Quiet hours run from 9:00 PM to 7:00 AM. During this period, noise in residential zones must not exceed 55 dBA at the property line.
How do I file a noise complaint in Santa Clarita?
Contact the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff's Station at (661) 260-4000 for immediate noise complaints. For ongoing issues, contact the Community Preservation Division at (661) 286-4040.
What is the 5 dB rule in Santa Clarita?
Any noise exceeding the ambient level by more than 5 decibels at a residential property line is prima facie evidence of a violation, making it easier for enforcement officers to cite offenders.

Sources & Official References

Related Ordinances in Santa Clarita

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