Huntington Beach, CA Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Huntington Beach, CA?
| Regulation | Details for Huntington Beach, CA |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: (714) 960-8825 |
10 PM to 7 AM (general disturbance)
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Huntington Beach, CA Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Huntington Beach, CA?
Huntington Beach, CA noise ordinances, primarily Huntington Beach Municipal Code (HBMC) Chapter 8.40 "NOISE CONTROL," prohibit excessive sound levels that disturb the peace, particularly between 10 PM and 7 AM. Specific decibel limits apply to different zones, with residential areas capped at 55 dBA during the day and 50 dBA at night. Violations can lead to fines, with loud parties potentially incurring $250-$1,000 penalties.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 55 dBA (7 AM - 10 PM) | 50 dBA (10 PM - 7 AM) |
| Commercial | 60 dBA (Anytime) | 60 dBA (Anytime) |
Note: Exterior noise standards are applied at the property line of the receiving use. Interior noise levels for new residential development shall not exceed 45 dBA CNEL. Professional office and public institutional properties have a 55 dBA anytime limit; industrial properties have a 70 dBA anytime limit.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Construction, repair, remodeling, or grading is permitted between 7 AM and 7 PM, Monday through Saturday, with a valid City permit. No construction is allowed on Sunday or Federal holidays. Average construction noise levels shall not exceed 80 dBA Leq at nearby noise-sensitive land uses. If permitted outside these hours, the limit is 50 dBA Leq.
- Amplified Sound:
It is unlawful to operate any sound-amplifying device in a manner that disturbs the peace. Any noise audible 50 feet or more from the source for more than five minutes between 10 PM and 7 AM is prohibited. Permits may be required for amplified sound in public spaces.
- Animals:
Barking dogs are a common source of noise complaints. General noise ordinances apply to animal disturbances, prohibiting noise that disturbs the peace.
- Vehicles:
Leaf blowers may only be used between 8 AM and 7 PM Monday through Saturday, and 9 AM and 6 PM on Sunday or Federal holidays. They must not exceed 70 dBA measured 10 feet away and cannot be operated within 10 feet of an operable window, door, or air intake. Operation duration is limited to 15-30 minutes per hour, depending on parcel size.
Frequently Asked Questions about Huntington Beach, CA Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Huntington Beach, CA?
10 PM to 7 AM (general disturbance). Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Huntington Beach, CA?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 55 dBA (7 AM - 10 PM) during the day and 50 dBA (10 PM - 7 AM) at night. Excessive vibration or bass that is plainly audible at the property line may also be a violation.
Who do I contact to report a noise violation in Huntington Beach, CA?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Huntington Beach, CA police non-emergency line at (714) 960-8825. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at Not specified (reports via MyHB App/website or email code.enforcement@surfcity-hb.org).