Dublin, CA Short-Term Rentals: Noise Rules (2026)

Dublin's noise rules are found in DMC Chapter 5.28 (Noise) and apply to short-term rentals the same way they apply to any residence. DMC Section 5.28.020 states that it is "unlawful and a nuisance for any person within the city persistently to maintain, emit, cause, mechanically or otherwise, or permit any animal owned by him or in his possession or control to make any loud, or disturbing, or unnecessary, or unusual or habitual noise or any noise which annoys or disturbs or injures or endangers the health, repose, peace or safety of any reasonable person of normal sensitivity present in the area." Rather than a single decibel cap, the code lists factors used to determine a violation: the level, intensity, character, and duration of the noise; the level and character of background noise; the time, place, and zoning district; proximity to residential sleeping facilities; and whether the noise is recurrent, intermittent, or constant. Because the rule is a performance/nuisance standard, late-night parties, amplified music, and similar disturbances at an STR can be cited even without a meter reading. In addition, the Planning Commission may attach noise-related conditions to a Bed and Breakfast Inn Conditional Use Permit, and noise complaints can factor into whether that permit is modified or revoked.