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Division 15 — Airport Land Use Compatibility Overlay Zone

§132.1510 Noise Compatibility

San Diego Zoning Code · 2026-06 edition · updated 2026-07-25 · San Diego

Noise compatibility between airport operations and proposed development within Review Area 1 of this overlay zone shall be evaluated as follows:

  • (a) Aircraft noise exposure is identified on Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan community noise equivalent level (CNEL) noise contour maps prepared and adopted by the Airport Land Use Commission for each airport, and filed in the office of the City Clerk. Adopted noise contour maps identified in Table 132-15C and noise compatibility criteria identified in Table 132-15D for MCAS Miramar, Brown Field Municipal Airport, Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport, and NOLF Imperial Beach airport influence areas and in Table 132-15E for the San Diego International Airport influence area shall be used to determine land use compatibility in accordance with Section 132.1510(b).

Table 132-15C Adopted Noise Contour Maps

Airport Influence Area Map Number
MCAS Miramar C-929
Brown Field Municipal Airport C-942
Montgomery-Gibbs Executive
Airport
C-937
San Diego International Airport C-951
NOLF Imperial Beach C-988

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  • (b) Development in an airport influence area shall be considered noise compatible if:

    • (1) The proposed development is consistent with the use regulations of the underlying base zone; and

    • (2) The proposed development is permitted within the applicable noise exposure range in Noise Compatibility Criteria Table 132-15D and Table 132-15E that corresponds to the identified aircraft noise exposure for the proposed location.

  • (c) Where noise attenuation is required for compatibility, the applicant shall demonstrate to the satisfaction of the City Manager that all interior spaces exposed to exterior aircraft noise sources will achieve the indoor noise level indicated on Table 132-15D and Table 132-15E.

  • (d) Only aircraft-related noise sources shall be considered in determining compliance with Table 132-15D and Table 132-15E, except as otherwise required by the California Building Code for hotel/motel and multiple dwelling units.

  • (e) Applicability to parcels with multiple noise contours.

    • (1) For uses conducted indoors, noise compatibility shall be determined by the noise exposure range that applies to 50 percent or more of the structure by gross floor area .

    • (2) For uses conducted outdoors, noise compatibility shall be determined by the noise exposure range that applies to the proposed location of the use on the premises .

  • (f) Where an applicant disputes the City Manager's determination of the use category for a proposed development , an applicant may request an interpretation by the Planning Commission in accordance with Section 131.0110(b).

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Legend for Table 132-15D

Symbol In
Table 132-15D
Description Of Symbol
P Use or use category is compatible with the identified exterior
noise exposure level, and is permitted subject to the regulations of
the underlying base zone. Regulations pertaining to a specific use
may be referenced.
- Use or use category is incompatible with the identified exterior
noise exposure level and is not permitted.

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Table 132-15D Noise Compatibility Criteria for MCAS Miramar, Brown Field Municipal Airport, Montgomery-Gibbs Executive Airport, and NOLF Imperial Beach Airport Influence Areas

Use Categories/ Subcategories
[See Section 131.0112 for an explanation and
descriptions of the Use Categories,
Subcategories, and Separately Regulated
Uses]
Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL)
60-65 65-70 70-75 75-80
Open Space
Active Recreation P P1 - -
Passive Recreation P - - -
Natural Resources Preservation P P P P
Park Maintenance Facilities P P - -
Agriculture
Agricultural Processing P P P2 -
Aquaculture Facilities P P P -
Dairies P P P -
Horticulture Nurseries & Greenhouses P P P -
Raising & Harvesting of Crops P P P -
Raising, Maintaining & Keeping of Animals P P P -
Separately Regulated Agriculture Uses
Agricultural Equipment Repair Shops P P P2 -
Commercial Stables P P P -
Community Gardens P P P -
Equestrian Show & Exhibition Facilities P P - -
Open Air Markets for the Sale of
Agriculture-Related Products & Flowers
P P - -
Residential
Mobilehome Parks P3 - - -
Multiple Dwelling Units P3 - - -
Rooming House[See Section
131.0112(a)(3)(A)]
P3 - - -

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Use Categories/ Subcategories
[See Section 131.0112 for an explanation and
descriptions of the Use Categories,
Subcategories, and Separately Regulated
Uses]
Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL)
60-65 65-70 70-75 75-80
Shopkeeper Units P3 - - -
Single Dwelling Units P3 - - -
Separately Regulated Residential Uses
Boarder and Lodger Accommodations Classify with primary use
Accessory Dwelling Units P3 - - -
Continuing Care Retirement Communities P3 - - -
Employee Housing:
6 or Fewer Employees P3 - - -
12 or Fewer Employees P3 - - -
Greater than 12 Employees P3 - - -
Fraternities and Sororities P3 - - -
Garage, Yard, & Estate Sales Classify with
primary use
Guest Quarters P3 - - -
Home Occupations Classify with
primary use
Interim Ground_Floor Residential_ P3 - - -
Junior Accessory Dwelling Units P3 - - -
Live/Work Quarters P3 - - -
Movable Tiny Houses P2 - - -
Permanent Supportive Housing P3 - - -
Residential Care Facilities:
6 or Fewer Persons Classify with primary use
7 or More Persons P3 - - -
Student Housing P3 - - -
Transitional Housing:
6 or Fewer Persons Classify with primary use
7 or More Persons P3 - - -
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Use Categories/ Subcategories
[See Section 131.0112 for an explanation and
descriptions of the Use Categories,
Subcategories, and Separately Regulated
Uses]
Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL)
60-65 65-70 70-75 75-80
Watchkeeper Quarters Classify with
primary use
Institutional
Separately Regulated Institutional Uses
Airports P P P P
Botanical Gardens & Arboretums P P P -
Cemeteries, Mausoleums, Crematories P P3 P3 -
Correctional Placement Centers P2 P3 - -
Educational Facilities:
Kindergarten through Grade 12 P3 - - -
Colleges / Universities P3 P3 - -
Vocational / Trade School P3 P3 - -
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations P P P P
Energy Generation & Distribution Facilities P P P P2
Exhibit Halls & Convention Facilities P P3 - -
_Flood_Control Facilities P P P P
_Historical Buildings_Used for Purposes Not
Otherwise Allowed
Classify with
primary use
Homeless Facilities:
Congregate Meal Facilities P P2 P2, 4 -
Emergency Shelters P3 P3 - -
Homeless Day Centers P P2 P2 -
Hospitals P3 - - -
Intermediate Care Facilities & Nursing
Facilities
P3 - - -
Interpretive Centers P3 - - -
Museums P3 - - -
Major Transmission, Relay, or P P P P

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Use Categories/ Subcategories
[See Section 131.0112 for an explanation and
descriptions of the Use Categories,
Subcategories, and Separately Regulated
Uses]
Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL)
60-65 65-70 70-75 75-80
Communications Switching Stations
_Placemaking_on Private Property P P P P
Satellite Antennas P P P P
Social Service Institutions P P2 P2 -
Wireless communication Facilities: See Section 141.0420
Retail Sales
Building Supplies & Equipment P P2 P2, 4 -
Food, Beverages and Groceries P P2 P2, 4 -
Consumer Goods, Furniture, Appliances,
Equipment
P P2 P2, 4 -
Pets & Pet Supplies P P2 P2, 4 -
Sundries, Pharmaceuticals, & Convenience
Sales
P P2 P2, 4 -
Wearing Apparel & Accessories P P2 P2, 4 -
Separately Regulated Sales Uses
Agriculture Related Supplies & Equipment P P2 P2, 4 -
Alcoholic Beverage Outlets P P2 P2, 4 -
Cannabis Outlets P P P2, 4 -
Farmers’ Markets
Daily Farmers’ Markets Stands P P - -
Weekly Farmers’ Markets P P - -
Plant Nurseries P P2 P2, 4 -
Retail Farms P P - -
Retail Tasting Stores P P2 P2, 4 -
Swap Meets & Other Large Outdoor Retail
Facilities
P P - -
Commercial Services

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Use Categories/ Subcategories
[See Section 131.0112 for an explanation and
descriptions of the Use Categories,
Subcategories, and Separately Regulated
Uses]
Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL)
60-65 65-70 70-75 75-80
Building Services P P2 P2 -
Business Support P P2 P2 -
Eating & Drinking Establishments P P2 P2, 4 -
Financial Institutions P P2 P2 -
Funeral & Mortuary Services P P2 P2, 4 -
Instructional Studios P2 P2, 4 - -
Maintenance & Repair P P2 P2 -
Off-Site Services P P2 P2 -
Personal Services P P2 P2, 4 -
Radio & Television Studios P P2 P2 -
Visitor Accommodations P3 P3 - -
Separately Regulated Commercial Services
Uses
Adult Entertainment Establishments:
Adult Book Store P P2 P2 -
Adult Cabaret P P2 P2 -
Adult Drive-In Theater P P2 - -
Adult Mini-Motion Picture Theater P P2 P2 -
Adult Model Studio P P2 P2 -
Adult_Motel_ P3 P3 P3 -
Adult Motion Picture Theater P P2 P2 -
Adult Peep Show Theater P P2 P2 -
Adult Theater P P2 P2 -
Body Painting Studio P P2 P2 -
Massage Establishment P P2 P2 -
Sexual Encounter Establishment P P2 P2 -
Assembly and Entertainment Uses, including P3 P1, 3 - -

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Use Categories/ Subcategories
[See Section 131.0112 for an explanation and
descriptions of the Use Categories,
Subcategories, and Separately Regulated
Uses]
Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) CNEL) CNEL)
60-65 65-70 70-75 75-80
Places of Religious Assembly
Bed & Breakfast Establishments:
1-2 Guest Rooms P3 P3 - -
3-5 Guest Rooms P3 P3 - -
6+ Guest Rooms P3 P3 - -
Boarding Kennels / Pet Day Care P P2 P2, 4, 9 -
Camping Parks P - - -
Child Care Facilities:
Child Care Centers P3 - - -
Large Family Day Care Homes P3 - - -
Small Family Day Care Homes P3 - - -
Eating and Drinking Establishments with a
Drive-In or Drive-Through Component
P P2 P2, 4 -
Fairgrounds P P - -
Golf Courses, Driving Ranges, and Pitch &
Putt Courses
P P - -
Helicopter Landing Facilities P P P P
Massage Establishments, Specialized Practice P P2 P2, 4 -
Mobile Food Trucks P P P P
Nightclubs & Bars over 5,000 square feet in
size
P P2 P2, 4 -
Parking Facilities as a_Primary Use_:
Permanent Parking Facilities P P P P
Temporary Parking Facilities P P P P
Private Clubs, Lodges and Fraternal
Organizations
P P2 P2 -
Privately Operated, Outdoor Recreation P P - -
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Use Categories/ Subcategories
[See Section 131.0112 for an explanation and
descriptions of the Use Categories,
Subcategories, and Separately Regulated
Uses]
Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL)
60-65 65-70 70-75 75-80
Facilities over 40,000 square feet in size(4)
Pushcarts on Private Property P P P -
Recycling Facilities:
Large Collection Facility P P P P
Small Collection Facility P P P P
Large Construction & Demolition Debris
Recycling Facility
P P P P
Small Construction & Demolition Debris
Recycling Facility
P P P P
Drop-off Facility P P P P
Green Materials Composting Facility P P P P
Mixed Organic Composting Facility P P P P
Large Processing Facility Accepting at
Least 98% of Total Annual Weight of
Recyclables from Commercial & Industrial
Traffic
P P P P
Large Processing Facility Accepting All
Types of Traffic
P P P P
Small Processing Facility Accepting at
Least 98% of Total Annual Weight of
Recyclables From Commercial &
Industrial Traffic
P P P P
Small Processing Facility Accepting All
Types of Traffic
P P P P
Reverse Vending Machines P P P P
Tire Processing Facility P P P P
Sidewalk Cafes P P - -
Sports Arenas & Stadiums P P - -

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Use Categories/ Subcategories
[See Section 131.0112 for an explanation and
descriptions of the Use Categories,
Subcategories, and Separately Regulated
Uses]
Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL)
60-65 65-70 70-75 75-80
Theaters that are outdoor or over 5,000
square feet in size
P P2 - -
Urgent Care Facilities P P2 P2 -
Veterinary Clinics & Animal Hospitals P P2 P2 -
Zoological Parks P P - -
Offices
Business & Professional P P2 P2 -
Government P P2 P2 -
Medical, Dental, & Health Practitioner P P2 P2 -
Regional & Corporate Headquarters P P2 P2 -
Separately Regulated Office Uses
Real Estate Sales Offices & Model Homes P P2 P2 -
_Sex Offender_Treatment & Counseling P P2 P2 -
Vehicle & Vehicular Equipment Sales &
Service
Commercial Vehicle Repair & Maintenance P P P2 -
Commercial Vehicle Sales & Rentals P P P2 -
Personal Vehicle Repair & Maintenance P P P2 -
Personal Vehicle Sales & Rentals P P P2 -
Vehicle Equipment & Supplies Sales &
Rentals
P P P2 -
Separately Regulated Vehicle & Vehicular
Equipment Sales & Service Uses
Automobile Service Stations P P P2 -
Outdoor Storage & Display of New,
Unregistered Motor Vehicles as a_Primary_
Use
P P P2 -
Wholesale, Distribution, Storage

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Use Categories/ Subcategories
[See Section 131.0112 for an explanation and
descriptions of the Use Categories,
Subcategories, and Separately Regulated
Uses]
Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL)
60-65 65-70 70-75 75-80
Equipment & Materials Storage Yards P P P P
Moving & Storage Facilities P P P2 -
Warehouses P P P2 -
Wholesale Distribution P P P2 -
Separately Regulated Wholesale,
Distribution, and Storage Uses
Impound Storage Yards P P P P
Junk Yards P P P P
Temporary Construction Storage Yards
Located off-site
P P P P
Industrial
Heavy Manufacturing P P P2 P7
Light Manufacturing P P P2 P7
Marine Industry P P P2 P7
Research & Development P P P2 P7
Testing Labs P P P2 P7
Trucking & Transportation Terminals P P P P7
Separately Regulated Industrial Uses
Artisan Food and Beverage Producer P P P2 P7
Cannabis Production Facilities P P P2 P7
_Hazardous Waste_Research Facility P P P2 P7
_Hazardous Waste_Treatment Facility P P P2 P7
Marine Related Uses Within the Coastal
Overlay Zone
P P P2 P7
Mining and Extractive Industries P P P P7, 8
Newspaper Publishing Plants P P P2 P7
Processing & Packaging of Plant Products &
Animal By-products Grown Off-premises
P P P2 P7

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Use Categories/ Subcategories
[See Section 131.0112 for an explanation and
descriptions of the Use Categories,
Subcategories, and Separately Regulated
Uses]
Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL)
60-65 65-70 70-75 75-80
Very Heavy Industrial Uses P P P2 P7
Wrecking & Dismantling of Motor Vehicles P P P P7
Signs
Allowable Signs P P P P
Separately RegulatedSigns Uses
Community Entry_Signs_ P P P P
Comprehensive_Sign_Program P P P P
Neighborhood Identification_Signs_ P P P P
Revolving_Projecting Signs_ P P P P
_Signs_with Automatic Changing Copy P P P P
Theater_Marquees_ P P P P

Footnotes to Table 132-15D

  • 1 Playgrounds are not allowed above the 65 dB CNEL aircraft noise exposure range.

  • 2 Interior spaces exposed to exterior aircraft noise sources shall be attenuated to achieve an indoor noise level of 50 dB CNEL.

  • 3 Interior spaces exposed to exterior aircraft noise sources shall be attenuated to achieve an indoor noise level of 45 dB CNEL.

  • 4 This use classification is not permitted for primary use outdoor spaces exposed to aircraft noise greater than 70 dB CNEL.

  • 5 Outdoor stadiums are not compatible in the 70-75dB CNEL aircraft noise exposure range.

  • 6 Instructional studios for the assembly of children (age 0-18 years) are not allowed above the 65 dB CNEL aircraft noise exposure range.

  • 7 This use classification is permitted in the 70-80 dB CNEL aircraft noise exposure range within the MCAS Miramar Airport influence area. Interior spaces exposed to exterior aircraft noise sources shall be attenuated to achieve an indoor noise level of 50 dB CNEL.

  • 8 This use classification is permitted in the 70-80 dB CNEL aircraft noise exposure range within the MontgomeryGibbs Executive Airport influence area. Interior spaces exposed to exterior aircraft noise sources shall be attenuated to achieve an indoor noise level of 50 dB CNEL.

  • 9 This use classification is not permitted in the 70-80 db CNEL aircraft noise exposure range within the MCAS Miramar Airport influence area.

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Legend for Table 132-15E

Symbol In
Table 132-15E
Description of Symbol
P Use or use category is compatible with the identified exterior noise
exposure level, and is permitted subject to the regulations of the
underlying base zone. Regulations pertaining to a specific use may be
referenced.
- Use or use category is incompatible with the identified exterior noise
exposure level and is not permitted.

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Table 132-15E Noise Compatibility Criteria for San Diego International Airport

Use Categories/ Subcategories
[See Section 131.0112 for an
explanation and descriptions of the
Use Categories, Subcategories, and
SeparatelyRegulated Uses]
Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL)
60-65 65-70 70-75 75-80
Open Space
Active Recreation P P P P
Passive Recreation P P P P
Natural Resources Preservation P P P P
Park Maintenance Facilities P P P P
Agriculture
Agricultural Processing P P P1 P1
Aquaculture Facilities P P P P
Dairies P P P P
Horticulture Nurseries &
Greenhouses
P P P P
Raising & Harvesting of Crops P P P P
Raising, Maintaining & Keeping of
Animals
P P P P
Separately Regulated Agriculture
Uses
Agricultural Equipment Repair
Shops
P P P1 P1
Commercial Stables P P P1 P1
Community Gardens P P P1 P1
Equestrian Show & Exhibition
Facilities
P P P1 P1
Open Air Markets for the Sale of
Agriculture-Related Products &
Flowers
P P P P

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Use Categories/ Subcategories
[See Section 131.0112 for an
explanation and descriptions of the
Use Categories, Subcategories, and
SeparatelyRegulated Uses]
Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL)
60-65 65-70 70-75 75-80
Residential
Mobilehome Parks P2 P2,4 P2,4,5 P2,4,5
Multiple Dwelling Units P2 P2,4 P2,4,5 P2,4,5
Rooming House[See Section
131.0112(a)(3)(A)]
P2 P2,4 P2,4,5 P2,4,5
Shopkeeper Units P2 P2,4 P2,4,5 P2,4,5
Single Dwelling Units P2 P2,4 P2,4,5 P2,4,5
Separately Regulated Residential
Uses
Boarder&_Lodger_Accommodations Classify with primary use
Accessory Dwelling Units P2 P2,4 P2,4,5 P2,4,5
Continuing Care Retirement
Communities
P2 - - -
Employee Housing:
6 or Fewer Employees P2 P2,4 P2,4,5 P2,4,5
12 or Fewer Employees P2 P2,4 P2,4,5 P2,4,5
Greater than 12 Employees P2 P2,4 P2,4,5 P2,4,5
Fraternities and Sororities P2 P2,4 P2,4,5 P2,4,5
Garage, Yard, & Estate Sales Classify with primary use
Guest Quarters P2 P2,4 P2,4,5 P2,4,5
Home Occupations Classify with primary use
Interim Ground_Floor Residential_ P2 P2,4 P2,4,5 P2,4,5
Junior Accessory Dwelling Units P2 P2 P2,5 P2,5
Live/Work Quarters P2 P2,4 P2,4,5 P2,4,5
Permanent Supportive Housing P2 P2,4 P2,4,5 P2,4,5
Residential Care Facilities:
6 or Fewer Persons Classify with primary use

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Use Categories/ Subcategories
[See Section 131.0112 for an
explanation and descriptions of the
Use Categories, Subcategories, and
SeparatelyRegulated Uses]
Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL)
60-65 65-70 70-75 75-80
7 or More Persons P2 P2,4 P2,4,5 P2,4,5
Student Housing P2 P2,4 P2,4,5 P2,4,5
Transitional Housing:
6 or Fewer Persons Classify with primary use
7 or More Persons P2 P2,4 P2,4,5 P2,4,5
Watchkeeper Quarters Classify with primary use
Institutional
Separately Regulated Institutional
Uses
Airports P P P P
Botanical Gardens & Arboretums P P P P
Cemeteries, Mausoleums,
Crematories
P P P P
Correctional Placement Centers P P3 P3 P3
Educational Facilities:
Kindergarten through Grade 12 P2 - - -
Colleges / Universities P2 P2,4 P2,4 -
Vocational / Trade School P2 P2,4 P2,4 -
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations P P P P
Energy Generation & Distribution
Facilities
P P P P
Exhibit Halls & Convention
Facilities
P P2 P2 -
_Flood_Control Facilities P P P P
_Historical Buildings_Used for
Purposes Not Otherwise Allowed
Classify with primary use
Homeless Facilities:
Congregate Meal Facilities P P P1 P1
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Use Categories/ Subcategories
[See Section 131.0112 for an
explanation and descriptions of the
Use Categories, Subcategories, and
SeparatelyRegulated Uses]
Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL)
60-65 65-70 70-75 75-80
Emergency Shelters P3 P3 P3 P3
Homeless Day Centers P3 P3 P3 P3
Hospitals P2 - - -
Intermediate Care Facilities &
Nursing Facilities
P2 - - -
Interpretive Centers P2 P2 P2 P2
Museums P P2 P2 P2
Major Transmission, Relay, or
Communications Switching Stations
P P P P
_Placemaking_on Private Property P P P P
Satellite_Antennas_ P P P P
Social Service Institutions P P1 P1 P1
Wireless Communication Facilities: See Section 141.0420
Retail Sales
Building Supplies & Equipment P P P1 P1
Food, Beverages and Groceries P P P1 P1
Consumer Goods, Furniture,
Appliances, Equipment
P P P1 P1
Pets & Pet Supplies P P P1 P1
Sundries, Pharmaceuticals, &
Convenience Sales
P P P1 P1
Wearing Apparel & Accessories P P P1 P1
Separately Regulated Sales Uses
Agriculture Related Supplies &
Equipment
P P P1 P1
Alcoholic Beverage Outlets P P P1 P1
Cannabis Outlets P P P1 P1
Farmers’ Markets

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Use Categories/ Subcategories
[See Section 131.0112 for an
explanation and descriptions of the
Use Categories, Subcategories, and
SeparatelyRegulated Uses]
Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL)
60-65 65-70 70-75 75-80
Daily Farmers’ Markets Stands P P P1 P1
Weekly Farmers’ Market P P P1 P1
Plant Nurseries P P P1 P1
Retail Farms P P P1 P1
Retail Tasting Stores P P P1 P1
Swap Meets & Other Large Outdoor
Retail Facilities
P P P1 P1
Commercial Services P1 P1
Building Services P P P1 P1
Business Support P P P1 P1
Eating & Drinking Establishments P P P1 P1
Financial Institutions P P P1 P1
Funeral & Mortuary Services P P P1 P1
Instructional Studios P1 P6 P6 -
Maintenance & Repair P P P1 P1
Off-Site Services P P P1 P1
Personal Services P P P1 P1
Radio & Television Studios P P P1 P1
Tasting Rooms P P P1 P1
Visitor Accommodations P3 P3 P3 P3
Separately Regulated Commercial
Services Uses
Adult Entertainment Establishments:
Adult Book Store P P P1 P1
Adult Cabaret P P P1 P1
Adult Drive-In Theater P P P P
Adult Mini-Motion Picture Theater P P P1 P1
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Use Categories/ Subcategories
[See Section 131.0112 for an
explanation and descriptions of the
Use Categories, Subcategories, and
SeparatelyRegulated Uses]
Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL)
60-65 65-70 70-75 75-80
Adult Model Studio P P P1 P1
Adult_Motel_ P3 P3 P3 P3
Adult Motion Picture Theater P P1 P1 P1
Adult Peep Show Theater P P P1 P1
Adult Theater P P1 P1 P1
Body Painting Studio P P P1 P1
Massage Establishment P P P1 P1
Sexual Encounter Establishment P P P1 P1
Assembly and Entertainment Uses,
including Places of Religious
Assembly
P2 P2, 7, 8 P2,7, 8 P2,7, 8
Bed & Breakfast Establishments:
1-2 Guest Rooms P3 P3, 4 P3, 4 P3, 4
3-5 Guest Rooms P3 P3, 4 P3, 4 P3, 4
6+ Guest Rooms P3 P3, 4 P3, 4 P3, 4
Boarding Kennels/ Pet Day Care P P P1 P1
Camping Parks P P6 P6 P6
Child Care Facilities:
Child Care Centers P2 - - -
Large Family Day Care Homes P2 P2, 4 P2, 4 P2, 4
Small Family Day Care Homes P2 P2, 4 P2, 4 P2, 4
Eating and Drinking Establishments
with a Drive-In or Drive-Through
Component
P P P1 P1
Fairgrounds P P P -
Golf Courses, Driving Ranges, and
Pitch & Putt Courses
P P P P
Helicopter Landing Facilities P P P P

Ch. Art. Div. 13 2 15 24

San Diego Municipal Code

Chapter 13: Zones

(10-2024)

Use Categories/ Subcategories
[See Section 131.0112 for an
explanation and descriptions of the
Use Categories, Subcategories, and
SeparatelyRegulated Uses]
Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL)
60-65 65-70 70-75 75-80
Massage Establishments, Specialized
Practice
P P P1 P1
Mobile Food Trucks P P P P
Nightclubs & Bars over 5,000 square
feet in size
P P P1 P1
Parking Facilities as a_Primary Use_:
Permanent Parking Facilities P P P P
Temporary Parking Facilities P P P P
Private Clubs, Lodges and Fraternal
Organizations
P2 P2,4 P2,4 P2,4
Privately Operated, Outdoor
Recreation Facilities over 40,000
square feet in size(4)
P P P P
Pushcarts on Private Property P P P P
Recycling Facilities:
Large Collection Facility P P P P
Small Collection Facility P P P P
Large Construction & Demolition
Debris_Recycling Facility_
P P P P
Small Construction & Demolition
Debris_Recycling Facility_
P P P P
Drop-off Facility P P P P
Green Materials Composting
Facility
P P P P
Mixed Organic Composting
Facility
P P P P
Large Processing Facility
Accepting at Least 98% of Total
Annual Weight of Recyclables
from Commercial & Industrial
Traffic
P P P P
13 2 15 25

San Diego Municipal Code

Chapter 13: Zones

(10-2024)

Use Categories/ Subcategories
[See Section 131.0112 for an
explanation and descriptions of the
Use Categories, Subcategories, and
SeparatelyRegulated Uses]
Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL)
60-65 65-70 70-75 75-80
Large Processing Facility
Accepting All Types of Traffic
P P P P
Small Processing Facility
Accepting at Least 98% of Total
Annual Weight of Recyclables
From Commercial & Industrial
Traffic
P P P P
Small Processing Facility
Accepting All Types of Traffic
P P P P
Reverse Vending Machines P P P P
Tire Processing Facility P P P P
Sidewalk Cafes P P P P
Sports Arenas & Stadiums P P P -
Theaters that are Outdoor or Over
5,000 Square Feet in Size
P P2 P2 P2
Urgent Care Facilities P2 - - -
Veterinary Clinics & Animal
Hospitals
P P P1 P1
Zoological Parks P P P P
Offices
Business & Professional P P P1 P1
Government P P P1 P1
Medical, Dental, & Health
Practitioner
P P P1 P1
Regional & Corporate
Headquarters
P P P1 P1
Separately Regulated Office Uses
Real Estate Sales Offices & Model
Homes
P P P1 P1
_Sex Offender_Treatment & P P P1 P1

Ch. Art. Div. 13 2 15 26

San Diego Municipal Code

Chapter 13: Zones

(10-2024)

Use Categories/ Subcategories
[See Section 131.0112 for an
explanation and descriptions of the
Use Categories, Subcategories, and
SeparatelyRegulated Uses]
Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL)
60-65 65-70 70-75 75-80
Counseling
Vehicle & Vehicular Equipment Sales
& Service
Commercial Vehicle Repair &
Maintenance
P P P1 P1
Commercial Vehicle Sales &
Rentals
P P P1 P1
Personal Vehicle Repair &
Maintenance
P P P1 P1
Personal Vehicle Sales & Rentals P P P1 P1
Vehicle Equipment & Supplies
Sales & Rentals
P P P1 P1
Separately Regulated Vehicle &
Vehicular Equipment Sales & Service
Uses
Automobile Service Stations P P P1 P1
Outdoor Storage & Display of New,
Unregistered Motor Vehicles as a
Primary Use
P P P P
Distribution and Storage
Equipment & Materials Storage
Yards
P P P P
Moving & Storage Facilities P P P P
Distribution Facilities P P P P
Separately Regulated Distribution
and Storage Uses
Impound Storage Yards P P P P
Junk Yards P P P P
Temporary Construction Storage
Yards Located Off-site
P P P P

Ch. Art. Div. 13 2 15 27

San Diego Municipal Code

Chapter 13: Zones

(10-2024)

Ch. Art. Div.
13
2
15
28
Use Categories/ Subcategories
[See Section 131.0112 for an
explanation and descriptions of the
Use Categories, Subcategories, and
SeparatelyRegulated Uses]
Industrial
Heavy Manufacturing
Light Manufacturing
Marine Industry
Research & Development
Testing Labs
Trucking & Transportation
Terminals
Separately Regulated Industrial Uses
Artisan Food and Beverage Producer
Cannabis Production Facilities
_Hazardous Waste_Research Facility
Hazardous Waste_Treatment Facility
Marine Related Uses Within the
Coastal Overlay Zone
Mining and Extractive Industries
Newspaper Publishing Plants
Processing & Packaging of Plant
Products & Animal By-products
Grown Off-premises
Very Heavy Industrial Uses
Wrecking & Dismantling of Motor
Vehicles
Signs
AllowableSigns
Separately RegulatedSigns Uses
Community Entry_Signs

Comprehensive_Sign_Program
Use Categories/ Subcategories
[See Section 131.0112 for an
explanation and descriptions of the
Use Categories, Subcategories, and
SeparatelyRegulated Uses]
Use Categories/ Subcategories
[See Section 131.0112 for an
explanation and descriptions of the
Use Categories, Subcategories, and
SeparatelyRegulated Uses]
Use Categories/ Subcategories
[See Section 131.0112 for an
explanation and descriptions of the
Use Categories, Subcategories, and
SeparatelyRegulated Uses]
Use Categories/ Subcategories
[See Section 131.0112 for an
explanation and descriptions of the
Use Categories, Subcategories, and
SeparatelyRegulated Uses]
Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL)
60-65 65-70 70-75 75-80
Industrial
Heavy Manufacturing P P P P
Light Manufacturing P P P P
Marine Industry P P P P
Research & Development P P P P
Testing Labs P P P P
Trucking & Transportation
Terminals
P P P P
Separately Regulated Industrial Uses
Artisan Food and Beverage Producer P P P P
Cannabis Production Facilities P P P P
_Hazardous Waste_Research Facility P P P P
_Hazardous Waste_Treatment Facility P P P P
Marine Related Uses Within the
Coastal Overlay Zone
P P P P
Mining and Extractive Industries P P P P
Newspaper Publishing Plants P P P P
Processing & Packaging of Plant
Products & Animal By-products
Grown Off-premises
P P P P
Very Heavy Industrial Uses P P P P
Wrecking & Dismantling of Motor
Vehicles
P P P P
Signs
AllowableSigns P P P P
Separately RegulatedSigns Uses
Community Entry_Signs_ P P P P
Comprehensive_Sign_Program P P P P

28
13 2 15 28

San Diego Municipal Code

Chapter 13: Zones

(10-2024)

Use Categories/ Subcategories
[See Section 131.0112 for an
explanation and descriptions of the
Use Categories, Subcategories, and
SeparatelyRegulated Uses]
Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL) Aircraft Noise Exposure (dB CNEL)
60-65 65-70 70-75 75-80
Neighborhood Identification_Signs_ P P P P
Revolving_Projecting Signs_ P P P P
_Signs_with Automatic Changing
Copy
P P P P
Theater_Marquees_ P P P P

Footnotes to Table 132-15E

  • 1 Interior spaces exposed to exterior aircraft noise sources shall be attenuated to achieve an indoor noise level of 50 dB CNEL.

  • 2 Interior spaces exposed to exterior aircraft noise sources shall be attenuated to achieve an indoor noise level of 45 dB CNEL.

  • 3 Sleeping rooms must be attenuated to 45 dB CNEL and any other indoor areas must be attenuated to 50 dB CNEL.

  • 4 Avigation easements must be dedicated to the Airport owner/operator.

  • 5 Residential development is permitted above the 70 dB CNEL noise exposure range only if the land use plan designation in place allowed for residential use in May 2014.

  • 6 Instructional studios for the assembly of children (age 0-18 years) are not allowed.

  • 7 Facilities that primarily serve adults require recordation of an avigation easement in accordance with Section 132.1530. Minor-oriented facilities are not permitted.

  • 8 Minor-oriented facilities are not permitted .

(“Noise Compatibility” added 10-25-2011 by O-20047 N.S.; effective 1-1-2012.) (Amended 9-15-2017 by O-20857 N.S.; effective 10-15-2017.) (Amended 10-17-2017 by O-20859 N.S.; effective 11-16-2017.) (Amended 1-8-2020 by O-21163 N.S.; effective 2-9-2020.) (Amended 8-12-2020 by O-21223 N.S.; effective 10-8-2020.) (Amended 4-14-2021 by O-21305 N.S.; effective 5-29-2021.) (Amended 12-17-2021 by O-21380 N.S.; effective 1-16-2022.) (Amended 5-23-2022 by O-21458 N.S.; effective 6-22-2022.) (Amended 7-22-2024 by O-21836 N.S.; effective 10-5-2024.)

Ch. Art. Div. 13 2 15 29

San Diego Municipal Code (10-2024)

Chapter 13: Zones

[Editors Note: Amendments as adopted by O-21836 N.S. will not apply within the Coastal Overlay Zone until the California Coastal Commission certifies it as a Local Coastal Program Amendment.

Click the link to view the Strikeout Ordinance highlighting changes to prior language http://docs.sandiego.gov/municode_strikeout_ord/O-21836-SO.pdf ]

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Contents — San Diego Zoning Code
San Diego Zoning Code
  1. Chapter 9
  2. Division 2 — House Numbers
  3. Division 3 — Advertising Displays Adjacent to Scenic Freeways,…
  4. Division 1 — General Provisions and Definitions
  5. Division 2 — Financing Facilities
  6. Division 3 — Bonds
  7. Division 1 — Housing Code
  8. Division 2 — Mobilehome Parks and Special Occupancy Parks
  9. Division 3 — San Diego Housing Commission
  10. Division 4 — Interim School Facilities Financing Ordinance
  11. Division 6 — Housing Impact Fees On Commercial Development
  12. Division 7 — Residential Tenant Protections
  13. Division 8 — Prohibition of Discrimination Based on a Tenant’s…
  14. Division 9 — Notice of Tenant’s Right to Operate a Daycare Home
  15. Division 10 — Affordable Housing Preservation
  16. Division 11 — Prohibition of Anti-Competitive Automated Rent P…
  17. Division 12 — Residential Tenant Utility Fees
  18. Division 1 — In General
  19. Division 2 — Responsibilities of City Council
  20. Division 3 — Administration of Program
  21. Division 5 — Designation of Residential Rehabilitation Areas a…
  22. Division 6 — Limitations on Amount of Loan
  23. Division 7 — Terms of Conventional RAP Loans
  24. Division 9 — Miscellaneous Provisions
  25. Division 19.7 — The Centre City Planned District
  26. Division 19.8 — The Centre City Planned District
  27. Division 2 — Land Development Authorities and Advisory Boards
  28. Division 2 — Fees and Deposits
  29. Division 3 — Notice
  30. Division 4 — Public Hearings
  31. Division 5 — Decision Process
  32. Division 1 — Definitions
  33. Division 2 — Rules for Calculation and Measurement
  34. Division 2 — Enforcement Authorities For the Land Development …
  35. Division 4 — Procedures For Abatement of Unsafe, Dangerous,
  36. Division 1 — Adoption And Amendment Procedures for Land Use Pl…
  37. Division 1 — Zoning and Rezoning Procedures
  38. Division 3 — Zoning Use Certificate Procedures
  39. Division 5 — Residential High Occupancy Permit
  40. Division 6 — Mobile Food Truck Permit
  41. Division 1 — General Subdivision Procedures
  42. Division 2 — Certificate of Compliance
  43. Division 4 — Tentative Maps (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.)
  44. Division 5 — Parcel Maps (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S.; eff…
  45. Division 6 — Final Maps
  46. Division 7 — Merger of Parcels (Added 12-9-1997 by O-18451 N.S…
  47. Division 8 — Reversion to Acreage
  48. Division 9 — Public Right-of-Way Vacations
  49. Division 10 — Easement Vacations
  50. Division 3 — Conditional Use Permit Procedures
  51. Division 4 — Neighborhood Development Permit Procedures (Added…
  52. Division 5 — Site Development Permit Procedures
  53. Division 6 — Planned Development Permit Procedures (Added 12-9…
  54. Division 8 — Variance Procedures
  55. Division 1 — General Review Procedures for Previously Conformi…
  56. Division 2 — Review Procedures for Previously Conforming Signs
  57. Division 1 — General Procedures and Authorities for Implementa…
  58. Division 2 — Procedures for Determination of
  59. Division 3 — Procedures for Preparation and Review of Environm…
  60. Division 1 — General Construction Permit Authority and Procedu…
  61. Division 2 — Building Permit Procedures
  62. Division 3 — Electrical Permit Procedures (Added 12-9-1997 by …
  63. Division 4 — Plumbing/Mechanical Permit Procedures
  64. Division 6 — Grading Permit Procedures (Added 12-9-1997 by O-1…
  65. Division 7 — Public Right-of-Way Permits
  66. Division 9 — Fire Permit Procedures
  67. Division 4 — Residential Base Zones
  68. Division 5 — Commercial Base Zones
  69. Division 6 — Industrial Base Zones
  70. Division 7 — Mixed-Use Base Zones
  71. Division 2 — Airport Approach Overlay Zone
  72. Division 3 — Airport Environs Overlay Zone
  73. Division 6 — Sensitive Coastal Overlay Zone
  74. Division 7 — Mobilehome Park Overlay Zone (Added 12-9-1997 by …
  75. Division 8 — Parking Impact Overlay Zone
  76. Division 9 — Residential Tandem Parking Overlay Zone
  77. Division 10 — Transit Area Overlay Zone
  78. Division 11 — Urban Village Overlay Zone
  79. Division 12 — Mission Trails Design District
  80. Division 13 — Clairemont Height Limit Overlay Zone
  81. Division 15 — Airport Land Use Compatibility Overlay Zone
  82. Division 16 — Community Enhancement Overlay Zone

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