Quiet hours in Sunnyvale, CA — also called the noise ordinance, nighttime noise rules, or residential quiet time — define the hours during which excessive noise is prohibited.
Sunnyvale enforces nighttime quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM (8 AM on weekends and holidays) under Municipal Code Chapter 19.48, with stricter decibel limits for residential zones during these times.
Sunnyvale Municipal Code Chapter 19.48 (Noise Control) establishes nighttime quiet hours during which exterior noise levels in residential areas must not exceed 50 dBA. During daytime hours (7 AM to 10 PM weekdays, 8 AM to 10 PM weekends), the limit rises to 60 dBA at the property line. Amplified sound, parties, loud voices, barking dogs, and mechanical equipment that can be heard across property lines during quiet hours are subject to citation. The Department of Public Safety responds to noise complaints and officers may measure sound levels with a meter. First offenses often result in warnings, but repeat violations carry administrative fines. Certain uses like emergency work, authorized construction, and Moffett Field aircraft operations are exempt.
Contact your local code enforcement office for specific penalty information.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Santa Clara County.
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