What are the quiet hours in Irvine, CA?

In Irvine, CA, designated quiet hours are typically 7PM-7AM. During these times, noise must be kept to a minimum.

Who do I call for a noise complaint in Irvine, CA?

For non-emergencies in Irvine, CA, contact the police at 949-724-7200. For code violations, contact Code Enforcement at 949-724-6326.

Irvine, CA Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]

When are quiet hours in Irvine, CA?

Regulation	Details for Irvine, CA
Quiet Hours	7PM-7AM
Weekends	See specific hours above
Enforcement	Police Non-Emergency: 949-724-7200

Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.

Who To Call (Non-Emergency)

949-724-7200 How to file a complaint →

Irvine, CA Noise Rules

Verified 2026

What is the noise ordinance in Irvine, CA?

Irvine, CA noise ordinances regulate stationary noise sources, property maintenance, and construction activities, aiming to maintain a peaceful environment. The city utilizes Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) for noise standards across various land use categories, and enforces restrictions on specific activities like leaf blowers and amplified sound. Violations can lead to citations or criminal complaints.

Decibel Limit Comparison

Decibel limits for residential and commercial zones in Irvine, CA
Zone Type	Day	Night
Residential	Not specified directly for general stationary noise.	Not specified directly for general stationary noise.
Commercial	Not specified directly for general stationary noise.	Not specified directly for general stationary noise.

Note: The City of Irvine uses Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) to quantify noise levels, with a 5 dBA penalty for evening (7 PM - 10 PM) and a 10 dBA penalty for nighttime (10 PM - 7 AM) noise. Exterior noise standards apply to all properties within designated noise zones, prohibiting noise that exceeds the standard for the receiving land use for any consecutive 15-minute period. Interior noise should not exceed 45 CNEL. For noise-sensitive land uses affected by aircraft/railroad noise, single events should not exceed 65 dBA (7 AM - 7 PM) or 55 dBA (7 PM - 7 AM).

Specific Restrictions

Construction:
Construction and agricultural activities are prohibited between 7 PM and 7 AM on weekdays, and between 6 PM and 9 AM on Saturdays. No construction or agricultural activities are permitted at any time on Sundays or Federal holidays. This also applies to trucks delivering construction or agricultural materials.
Amplified Sound:
The City Council has discussed and recently updated (November 2023) the noise ordinance to establish reduced sound/noise limits for both volume and bass effects for amplified sound.
Animals:
Barking dogs are a common noise complaint and can be reported to the non-emergency police line. Animal Services handles animal-related issues.
Vehicles:
Mobile noise sources like motor vehicles, railroads, and aircraft are subject to state motor vehicle code noise standards enforced by the police. Deliveries to or pickups from commercial properties sharing a property line with residential properties are permitted from 7 AM to 10 PM daily.
Property Maintenance (Landscaping):
Noise from property maintenance is prohibited from 7 PM to 7 AM on any day except Sundays. On Sundays and Federal holidays, it's restricted between 6 PM and 9 AM. Leaf blowers must be certified below 70 dBA (or 76 dBA at 25 feet) and are restricted from 5 PM to 8 AM on weekdays, 5 PM to 9 AM on Saturdays, and are not allowed at any time on Sundays. As of July 1, 2024, gas-powered leaf blowers and lawnmowers are prohibited.

Frequently Asked Questions about Irvine, CA Noise Rules

What are the designated quiet hours in Irvine, CA?

Property maintenance is restricted from 7 PM to 7 AM on weekdays and Saturdays, and from 6 PM to 9 AM on Sundays and Federal holidays. General disturbing noise has no formal time, enforced under 'loud and unreasonable noise'.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.

How loud can I play music in Irvine, CA?

Residential areas typically have a limit of Not specified directly for general stationary noise. during the day and Not specified directly for general stationary noise. 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 Irvine, CA?

For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Irvine, CA police non-emergency line at 949-724-7200. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 949-724-6326.

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