Sacramento, CA
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Sacramento, CA.
Ordinance Summary
Sacramento, CA noise ordinances, primarily Chapter 8.68 of the City Code, prohibit loud, unnecessary, or unusual noises disturbing peace and quiet. Residential exterior noise limits are 55 dBA during the day (7 AM-10 PM) and 50 dBA at night (10 PM-7 AM). Specific restrictions apply to construction, amplified sound, animals, and vehicles, with violations constituting a misdemeanor.
Quiet Hours
10 PM to 7 AM
Police Non-Emergency
916-808-5471 (City of Sacramento Police Department)Decibel Limits
"Exterior noise limits for agricultural and residential properties are 55 dBA (7 AM-10 PM) and 50 dBA (10 PM-7 AM). These limits are reduced by 5 dBA for impulsive, simple tone noises, or noises consisting of speech or music. For multi-dwelling units, interior nighttime limits (10 PM-7 AM) are 45 dBA for >5 minutes/hour, 50 dBA for >1 minute/hour, and 55 dBA for any period."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Sacramento, CA code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Noise from construction, excavation, demolition, alteration, or repair of any building is exempt between 7 AM and 6 PM, Monday through Saturday, and between 9 AM and 6 PM on Sunday. Internal combustion engines must be equipped with suitable exhaust and intake silencers.
Permits may be issued by the Chief of Police, containing limitations on times, duration, volume, and places. Unnecessary, loud, or unusual noises that disturb comfort, repose, health, peace, or safety are unlawful.
The keeping of any animal, fowl, or bird that causes frequent or long-continued noise disturbing the comfort or repose of persons in the vicinity is unlawful.
Unlawful motor noises include backfiring and motor racing not reasonably required. Sounding a horn or signaling device is only permitted as a danger warning; creating unreasonably loud or harsh sounds, or sounding for an unnecessary period, is prohibited. New waste disposal vehicles must not exceed 80 dBA at 50 feet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
10 PM to 7 AM.
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: 916-808-5471 (City of Sacramento Police Department).
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Noise Solutions for Sacramento, CA
SolvedBest Gear for Sacramento, 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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