What is the residential decibel limit in Berkeley, CA?

Daytime limit: 60 dBA (R-1, R-2), 65 dBA (R-3) from 7 AM - 7 PM. Nighttime limit: 50 dBA (R-1, R-2), 55 dBA (R-3) from 9 AM - 8 PM (weekends/holidays for construction/stationary equipment). Limits for stationary construction equipment. Interior noise in multi-family dwellings should not exceed 55 dBA at any time or 50 dBA for any minute within an hour. If ambient noise levels are higher than the standard, the ambient level becomes the allowable limit.

Who do I call for a noise complaint in Berkeley, CA?

For non-emergencies, contact the police at (510) 981-5900 (for neighborhood parties), (510) 981-5911 (general). For code violations, contact Code Enforcement at (510) 981-5444 (Housing Code Inspections), (510) 981-5310 (Environmental Health Division for noise complaints/readings).

Berkeley, CA Noise Ordinance

Quiet Hours: 10 PM - 7 AM daily (general quiet hours); Construction: 7 AM - 7 PM weekdays, 9 AM - 8 PM weekends and holidays.

Residential Decibel Limit: 60 dBA (R-1, R-2), 65 dBA (R-3) from 7 AM - 7 PM (Day) / 50 dBA (R-1, R-2), 55 dBA (R-3) from 9 AM - 8 PM (weekends/holidays for construction/stationary equipment) (Night)

Summary: Berkeley, CA noise ordinances, primarily found in Chapter 13.40 of the Berkeley Municipal Code ("Community Noise"), prohibit loud, unnecessary, or unusual noises that disturb neighborhood peace. It regulates amplified sound, construction, domestic power tools, and animal noise with specific allowable hours and decibel limits for different zoning districts.

Local Noise Laws

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