Santa Rosa, CA Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Santa Rosa, CA?
| Regulation | Details for Santa Rosa, CA |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 9PM-8AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 707-528-5222 |
Generally, 9 PM to 8 AM. Specific activities may have different hours.
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Santa Rosa, CA Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Santa Rosa, CA?
Santa Rosa, CA noise ordinances, primarily Chapter 17-16 of the City Code, prohibit loud, unnecessary, or unusual noise that disturbs neighboring properties. This includes regulating amplified sound, machinery, equipment, vehicles, and leaf blowers. Generally, noise exceeding the ambient level by more than 5 decibels at the property line is considered a violation. Quiet hours for short-term rentals are 9 PM to 8 AM.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 5 dB above ambient | 5 dB above ambient |
| Commercial | Not explicitly stated for all, but machinery/equipment limited to 5 dB above ambient at property line. | Not explicitly stated for all, but machinery/equipment limited to 5 dB above ambient at property line. |
Note: Any noise level exceeding the ambient base level at the property line of any property by more than five decibels shall be deemed prima facie evidence of a violation. Amplified sound is limited to 15 decibels above the ambient base noise level.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
General construction is subject to the 5 dB above ambient noise limit for machinery and equipment. Vehicle repair in residential areas is unlawful between 8 PM and 8 AM if it disturbs a reasonable person.
- Amplified Sound:
Commercial and non-commercial amplified sound permitted between 9 AM and 6 PM daily, except Sundays and legal holidays (non-commercial permitted 10 AM to 6 PM on Sundays/holidays; no commercial amplified sound on Sundays/holidays). Sound level cannot exceed 15 decibels above ambient. Not permitted within 200 feet of churches, schools, or hospitals. Outdoor amplified sound is prohibited for short-term rentals. Registration required for sound-amplifying equipment.
- Animals:
No person shall keep any animal that, by any sound, cry, or behavior, causes annoyance or discomfort to a reasonable person of normal sensitiveness in any residential neighborhood. Roosters are prohibited.
- Vehicles:
Operation of 'pandemoniac motor vehicles' (creating noise from tire friction by accelerating) is prohibited. Vehicle repairs in residential areas are restricted between 8 PM and 8 AM if disturbing.
- Leaf Blowers:
Operation of gas-powered leaf blowers or lawn brooms in residential districts is unlawful between 8 PM and 8 AM on weekdays, or between 8 PM and 9 AM on Saturdays and Sundays.
- Machinery and Equipment:
Operation of machinery, equipment, pumps, fans, air-conditioning apparatus, or similar mechanical devices cannot create noise exceeding the ambient base noise level by more than five decibels at the property line.
- Radios, TV, and Similar Devices:
Unlawful to operate in a residential zone in a manner that disturbs the peace, quiet, and comfort of neighboring residents or a reasonable person. Exceeding ambient by 5 dB is prima facie evidence of violation.
Frequently Asked Questions about Santa Rosa, CA Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Santa Rosa, CA?
Generally, 9 PM to 8 AM. Specific activities may have different hours.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Santa Rosa, CA?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 5 dB above ambient during the day and 5 dB above ambient 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 Santa Rosa, CA?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Santa Rosa, CA police non-emergency line at 707-528-5222. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at Not specified (submit complaints via online form or email: code@srcity.org).