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The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3San Jose, CA
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"Decibel limits are often measured at the property line. Sound equipment in residential areas may not exceed 75 dB(A) from 10 p.m. to 10 a.m."
AI Executive Summary
San Jose, CA noise ordinances, primarily Chapter 10.16 of the Municipal Code, prohibit unreasonably loud noises that disturb neighborhood peace. While no blanket curfew exists, stricter limitations generally apply between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., enforced through a 'plainly audible' standard or measured decibel levels. Specific rules cover construction, amplified sound, animals, and vehicles.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
General construction/demolition: 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. No construction on weekends or holidays within 500 feet of residential units. Construction within public streets: 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (M-F) and 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Saturdays and Sundays).
Amplified Sound
Operation of loudspeakers or sound amplifiers requires a permit from the chief of police. Sound equipment in residential areas is restricted if plainly audible past the property line or exceeds 75 dB(A) between 10 p.m. and 10 a.m. Playing any radio, phonograph, or musical device in a manner that is disturbing or unreasonably loud to a reasonable person outside the unit is prohibited.
Animals
No owner shall allow an animal to habitually disturb the peace by howling, barking, crying, baying, or making any other noise. This includes incessant noise for 30 minutes or more, or intermittent noise accumulating to 60 minutes or more, in any 24-hour period.
Vehicles
Prohibits sounding any horn or noise device other than allowed by the California Vehicle Code. Noise from an exhaust system not constructed to prevent disturbing or unreasonably loud noise. Revving an engine while not in motion (except for repair/testing). Vehicle Code section 27007 specifies 50 feet as the allowable distance for noise from a vehicle parked on public property.
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