San Diego, CA Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in San Diego, CA?
| Regulation | Details for San Diego, CA |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 619-531-2000 or 858-484-3154 |
10PM-7AM (residential); 10PM-8AM (amplified sound curfew); 7PM-7AM (construction)
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
San Diego, CA Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in San Diego, CA?
San Diego, CA noise ordinances, primarily Municipal Code Section 59.5.04, prohibit disturbing, excessive, or offensive noise that causes discomfort or annoyance. Residential quiet hours are generally 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.. Construction and amplified sound have strict regulations, and violations can lead to fines up to $1,000, or $2,500 for severe construction noise issues.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | Single Family: 50 dB; Multi-Family: 55 dB; All Other Residential: 60 dB (7AM-7PM) | Single Family: 40 dB; Multi-Family: 45 dB; All Other Residential: 50 dB (10PM-7AM) |
| Commercial | Not specified | Not specified |
Note: Decibel limits vary by zoning and time of day. An average sound level greater than 75 dB from construction is unlawful at residential property lines between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.. When two adjacent properties have different zone classifications, the average of the two sound level limits is used.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Prohibited between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. on weekdays, Sundays, and legal holidays. Saturday construction may be permitted from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.. An average sound level greater than 75 decibels is unlawful at residential property lines between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.. Permits for work outside these hours can be obtained from the Noise Abatement and Control Administrator.
- Amplified Sound:
A curfew is in effect between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. for loud yelling, shouting, singing outdoors, or using amplified sound audible 50 feet away. Non-commercial sound trucks are permitted 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., limited to 65 decibels at 50 feet, and restricted within 100 yards of hospitals, schools, churches, or courthouses. Special events require permits.
- Animals:
Frequent or long-continued animal noise causing annoyance or discomfort to a reasonable person is unlawful. Barking dogs are considered excessive if barking continuously for an hour or more with short breaks within a 24-hour period.. The San Diego Police Department does not respond to calls about barking dogs; complainants should contact Code Enforcement.
- Vehicles:
Unnecessary use of horns or signaling devices is prohibited. Vehicle and structure burglar alarms must terminate within 20 minutes, and police can disconnect them. Operating refuse compacting/collection vehicles or parking lot sweepers in residential areas between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. (refuse collection between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m.) without a permit is prohibited. Playing radios or similar devices on urban transit buses/trolleys audible to others is also prohibited.
Frequently Asked Questions about San Diego, CA Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in San Diego, CA?
10PM-7AM (residential); 10PM-8AM (amplified sound curfew); 7PM-7AM (construction). Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in San Diego, CA?
Residential areas typically have a limit of Single Family: 50 dB; Multi-Family: 55 dB; All Other Residential: 60 dB (7AM-7PM) during the day and Single Family: 40 dB; Multi-Family: 45 dB; All Other Residential: 50 dB (10PM-7AM) 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 San Diego, CA?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the San Diego, CA police non-emergency line at 619-531-2000 or 858-484-3154. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at City of San Diego Code Enforcement (via Request for Investigation form).