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

The County's adopted short-term rental program in Ordinance Code Chapter 8.70 does not set decibel limits or fixed quiet hours specifically for short-term rentals. Instead, the ordinance's main tool for managing noise and guest conduct is the required local contact person: each rental must post, near the front door, the name and a 24-hour telephone contact for a local person or property manager who is personally available by phone on a twenty-four-hour basis and can address problems. Operator guidance for the program describes that contact as expected to be able to respond and be on-site quickly, so neighbors have a direct line to resolve a loud-party complaint without waiting for County staff. Beyond the rental-specific posting, noise is enforceable under the County's general nuisance framework and applicable noise standards, which can treat excessive, repeated, or late-night noise as a public nuisance. In the County's most active vacation-rental communities, the most active noise enforcement is private: the Pine Mountain Lake Association reports handling complaints involving excessive noise, disorderly conduct, and overcrowding under its CC&Rs and short-term rental permit policy, with the ability to fine members. Operators should set clear house rules, post the 24/7 local contact, and comply with any HOA quiet hours.