San Diego, CA
Noise Code

Prohibited between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. on weekdays, Sundays, and legal holidays. Saturday construction may be permitted from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.. An average sound level greater than 75 decibels is unlawful at residential property lines between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.. Permits for work outside these hours can be obtained from the Noise Abatement and Control Administrator.

A curfew is in effect between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. for loud yelling, shouting, singing outdoors, or using amplified sound audible 50 feet away. Non-commercial sound trucks are permitted 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., limited to 65 decibels at 50 feet, and restricted within 100 yards of hospitals, schools, churches, or courthouses. Special events require permits.

Frequent or long-continued animal noise causing annoyance or discomfort to a reasonable person is unlawful. Barking dogs are considered excessive if barking continuously for an hour or more with short breaks within a 24-hour period.. The San Diego Police Department does not respond to calls about barking dogs; complainants should contact Code Enforcement.

Unnecessary use of horns or signaling devices is prohibited. Vehicle and structure burglar alarms must terminate within 20 minutes, and police can disconnect them. Operating refuse compacting/collection vehicles or parking lot sweepers in residential areas between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. (refuse collection between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m.) without a permit is prohibited. Playing radios or similar devices on urban transit buses/trolleys audible to others is also prohibited.