Bakersfield, CA
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Bakersfield, CA.
Ordinance Summary
Bakersfield, CA noise ordinances, primarily Chapter 9.22 of the Municipal Code, prohibit loud, unnecessary noise that disturbs neighborhood peace. Stricter standards apply between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Construction and motorized landscaping activities are restricted to specific daytime hours, typically 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays and 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends. The City's General Plan also sets noise standards for transportation and non-transportation sources.
Quiet Hours
10:00 PM - 7:00 AM (general noise); specific hours for construction and amplified sound.
Police Non-Emergency
661-327-7111Decibel Limits
"The City of Bakersfield's noise standards are contained within the Metropolitan Bakersfield General Plan. For non-transportation sources, hourly noise level performance is applied, with stricter standards during nighttime hours. Transportation noise at noise-sensitive land uses has an exterior standard of 65 dB CNEL and an interior standard of 45 dB CNEL."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Bakersfield, CA code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction activities, including motorized landscaping equipment, are prohibited before 6 a.m. and after 9 p.m. Monday through Friday. On Saturdays and Sundays, these activities are prohibited before 8 a.m. and after 9 p.m.
Permit is required for operating sound equipment. Operations are generally permitted between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. daily. Sound equipment operating from a fixed location on private premises in commercial or industrial zones may operate until 10 p.m. It cannot be operated within 100 yards of any hospital or school (except after school hours or non-session days). Only music and human speech are permitted.
Not specified for specific animal noise restrictions beyond general nuisance. Complaints about loud or nuisance animals can be directed to Animal Control.
Loud vehicles or music from vehicles can be reported to the Bakersfield Police Department. The Municipal Code includes provisions for amplified sound from vehicles, and Kern County ordinances also reference state vehicle code regarding sound. Refrigerator trucks in commercial/manufacturing zones must not detrimentally impact residential properties between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
10:00 PM - 7:00 AM (general noise); specific hours for construction and amplified sound..
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: 661-327-7111.
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Noise Solutions for Bakersfield, CA
SolvedBest Gear for Bakersfield, CA Residents
Ultrasonic Bark Control
Humane deterrent that emits a high-frequency sound when it detects barking.
Loop Quiet Ear Plugs
The "gold standard" for sleeping. Reduces noise by 24dB without the pain of foam plugs.
1/2" Thick Rug Pad
Essential for the "80% Rule." Adds density to rugs to absorb footfall impact noise for downstairs neighbors.
Hemp Calming Chews
Natural relief for dog anxiety. Perfect for separation anxiety barking or fear of fireworks.
ThunderShirt for Dogs
The best solution for anxiety-induced barking (fireworks, thunder, separation).
Marpac Dohm Classic
The original fan-based machine. Unlike digital loops, this creates real rushing air sound.
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