San Jose, CA
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for San Jose, CA.
Ordinance Summary
San Jose, CA noise ordinances, primarily Chapter 10.16 of the Municipal Code, prohibit unreasonably loud noises that disturb neighborhood peace. While no blanket curfew exists, stricter limitations generally apply between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., enforced through a 'plainly audible' standard or measured decibel levels. Specific rules cover construction, amplified sound, animals, and vehicles.
Quiet Hours
10PM-7AM
Police Non-Emergency
(408) 277-8900Decibel Limits
"Decibel limits are often measured at the property line. Sound equipment in residential areas may not exceed 75 dB(A) from 10 p.m. to 10 a.m."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the San Jose, CA code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
General construction/demolition: 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. No construction on weekends or holidays within 500 feet of residential units. Construction within public streets: 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (M-F) and 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (Saturdays and Sundays).
Operation of loudspeakers or sound amplifiers requires a permit from the chief of police. Sound equipment in residential areas is restricted if plainly audible past the property line or exceeds 75 dB(A) between 10 p.m. and 10 a.m. Playing any radio, phonograph, or musical device in a manner that is disturbing or unreasonably loud to a reasonable person outside the unit is prohibited.
No owner shall allow an animal to habitually disturb the peace by howling, barking, crying, baying, or making any other noise. This includes incessant noise for 30 minutes or more, or intermittent noise accumulating to 60 minutes or more, in any 24-hour period.
Prohibits sounding any horn or noise device other than allowed by the California Vehicle Code. Noise from an exhaust system not constructed to prevent disturbing or unreasonably loud noise. Revving an engine while not in motion (except for repair/testing). Vehicle Code section 27007 specifies 50 feet as the allowable distance for noise from a vehicle parked on public property.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
10PM-7AM.
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: (408) 277-8900.
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Noise Solutions for San Jose, CA
SolvedBest Gear for San Jose, 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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