Modesto, CA Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Modesto, CA?
| Regulation | Details for Modesto, CA |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-7AM |
| Weekends | See specific hours above |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 209-552-2470 |
10PM-7AM (general); 9PM-7AM weekdays (construction/power tools); 9PM-9AM weekends/holidays (construction/power tools)
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Modesto, CA Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Modesto, CA?
Modesto, CA's Chapter 9 - NOISE REGULATIONS prohibits "loud and raucous noise" that annoys, disturbs, injures, or endangers the comfort, health, peace, or safety of a reasonable person. This includes yelling, amplified sound, and barking dogs during specific quiet hours. Construction noise has separate restrictions.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | Not specified | Not specified |
| Commercial | Not specified | Not specified |
Note: The Modesto General Plan references Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) and Day/Night Average Sound Level (Ldn) for planning purposes, with additions of 5 dBA for evening (7PM-10PM) and 10 dBA for nighttime (10PM-7AM) noise levels for assessment, but the ordinance does not specify enforceable decibel limits for typical noise violations.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Loud and raucous operation of tools or equipment (e.g., hammers, impact wrenches, internal-combustion engine powered tools) is prohibited before 7:00 a.m. or after 9:00 p.m. daily. On Saturdays, Sundays, and State or federal holidays, these activities are prohibited before 9:00 a.m. and after 9:00 p.m.
- Amplified Sound:
Loud and raucous use or operation of any radio, amplifier, phonograph, stereo, compact disc or tape player, loudspeaker, bullhorn, megaphone, or other sound-producing device is generally prohibited. Loud music is specifically prohibited before 7:00 a.m. and after 10:00 p.m. A Sound Amplification Permit is required for amplified sound.
- Animals:
The owning, possessing, controlling, harboring, or keeping of any dog, cat, or other animal or fowl which by howling, yelping, whining, barking, or otherwise causes a loud and raucous noise is prohibited. An extended period of incessant noise is 30 minutes or more in any 24-hour period, or intermittent noise that accumulates to 60 minutes or more during any 24-hour period.
- Vehicles:
Loud and raucous use of radios, CD and tape players, and phonographs in vehicles is prohibited. Motor vehicles subject to the California Vehicle Code are generally excluded from the general noise prohibition, unless specifically enumerated within the ordinance.
Frequently Asked Questions about Modesto, CA Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Modesto, CA?
10PM-7AM (general); 9PM-7AM weekdays (construction/power tools); 9PM-9AM weekends/holidays (construction/power tools). Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Modesto, CA?
Residential areas typically have a limit of Not specified during the day and Not specified 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 Modesto, CA?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Modesto, CA police non-emergency line at 209-552-2470. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 209-577-5250.