Salinas, CA Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Salinas, CA?
| Regulation | Details for Salinas, CA |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 9PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 831-758-7321 |
General loud noise is prohibited between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM. Amplified sound and loud parties are restricted from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Salinas, CA Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Salinas, CA?
Salinas, CA noise ordinances, primarily Chapter 21A, prohibit unnecessary and excessive noise, with specific quiet hours from 9:00 PM to 7:00 AM for 'Class B' (residential activities like home construction) and 'Class C' noises, and 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM for amplified sound and loud parties. Violations can lead to fines starting at $100.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | N/A | N/A |
Note: While police use sound meters for vehicle noise, specific decibel limits for residential or commercial areas are not publicly detailed in the provided ordinances.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Class B noise, which includes home construction projects, is unlawful between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM. General construction hours are typically 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM on non-holiday weekdays, with special permits required for work outside these hours.
- Amplified Sound:
Unlawful between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM. Sound must not be unreasonably loud, raucous, jarring, disturbing, or a nuisance. It cannot disrupt hospitals, churches, schools, courthouses, or city facilities. A registration statement is required for public use of loudspeakers/sound-amplifying equipment on public property, except for religious services.
- Animals:
Animal owners shall not allow animals to disturb any person by barking or howling. Chickens and roosters are prohibited within City limits.
- Vehicles:
It is unlawful for a vehicle to have excessive or unusual noise (California Vehicle Code 27.151 B). Vehicles must not be parked on any public street for more than 72 consecutive hours. Inoperable vehicles are prohibited on private property unless stored inside a garage.
Frequently Asked Questions about Salinas, CA Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Salinas, CA?
General loud noise is prohibited between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM. Amplified sound and loud parties are restricted from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Salinas, CA?
Residential areas typically have a limit of established limits during the day and stricter limits 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 Salinas, CA?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Salinas, CA police non-emergency line at 831-758-7321. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 831-758-7157.