STR guests in unincorporated Orange County must comply with the county noise ordinance (OCCO §4-6-5) as a condition of the STR permit. Exterior noise limits are 55 dBA daytime (7 AM–10 PM) and 50 dBA nighttime (10 PM–7 AM), with STR operators responsible for guest compliance.
The OC Development Services STR permit requires that occupants comply with the exterior noise standards established in OCCO Section 4-6-5. This means continuous noise may not exceed 55 dBA from 7 AM to 10 PM or 50 dBA from 10 PM to 7 AM at the property line. The STR operator must provide guests with the county noise rules and quiet hours as a condition of the rental agreement. Noise complaints from neighbors can trigger Code Enforcement investigations. Verified noise violations count toward the two-violation threshold for permit revocation. The STR permit holder (property owner) bears responsibility for guest behavior, even when using a property management company. Music is subject to a further 5 dBA reduction, and amplified sound equipment audible beyond the property line is prohibited between 10 PM and 7 AM under OCCO §4-6-8.
Noise violations by STR guests are enforced as both noise ordinance misdemeanors (OCCO §4-6-15) and STR permit violations ($1,000/day). Two or more violations lead to permit revocation and a one-year ban.
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