San Luis Obispo, CA
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for San Luis Obispo, CA.
Ordinance Summary
San Luis Obispo, CA noise ordinances, detailed in Municipal Code Chapter 9.12 "Noise Control," are a 24/7 regulation. Noise is prohibited if plainly audible 50 feet from the source between 7 AM and 10 PM, and across property lines from 10 PM to 7 AM. Specific decibel limits apply to interior residential and noise-sensitive uses.
Quiet Hours
10:00 PM - 7:00 AM
Police Non-Emergency
(805) 781-7312Decibel Limits
"Hourly Leq and Maximum Lmax apply to noise-sensitive uses as per City of San Luis Obispo 1996 data. Interior multifamily residential limits are 45 dBA (day) and 40 dBA (night). Limits are reduced by 5 dB for steady tones, repetitive noise, music, or speech."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the San Luis Obispo, CA code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction and demolition activities at residential properties are restricted to between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. daily, except Sundays and legal holidays. [cite: 19 in previous search]
Operating loudspeakers or similar devices is prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. if it creates a noise disturbance across a residential real property line or violates general exterior noise limits. [cite: 19 in previous search]
It is prohibited to keep or permit any animals that, by any sound or cry, disturb the peace and comfort of any neighborhood or interfere with the reasonable and comfortable enjoyment of life or property.
Refuse collection vehicles are prohibited from operating between 7:00 p.m. and 6:30 a.m. within or adjacent to residential areas. The operation of motorized recreational vehicles off public rights-of-way, and the repair/testing of vehicles, motorboats, or aircraft, cannot create noise levels that violate interior noise standards or cause a noise disturbance across a residential property line.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
10:00 PM - 7:00 AM.
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: (805) 781-7312.
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Noise Solutions for San Luis Obispo, CA
SolvedBest Gear for San Luis Obispo, 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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