1500-21.50-070 - Exceptions to Noise Standards
Sutter County Zoning Code · 2026-06 edition · ingested 2026-07-07 · Sutter County
The following activities shall be exempted from the provisions of this Article:
A.
Agricultural Activities. Noise sources associated with agricultural activities in zones permitting agricultural uses, which are carried out in any manner consistent with the practice and within the standards of the agricultural industry. This includes without limitation all mechanical devices, apparatus or equipment
utilized for the protection or salvage of agricultural crops during periods of adverse weather conditions or when the use of mobile sources is necessary for pest control.
B.
Construction. Noise sources associated with construction, repair, remodeling, demolition, paving or grading of any real property or public works project located within 1,000 feet of noise-sensitive uses (i.e., residential uses, daycares, schools, convalescent homes, and medical care facilities), provided such activities take place between:
1.
7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekdays
2.
8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Saturdays
Construction is prohibited on Sundays and legal holidays unless permission has been applied for and granted by the County.
C.
Emergency Activities. Any machinery, equipment, vehicle, manpower or other activity related to or connected with emergency activities or emergency work to protect, maintain, provide or restore safe conditions in the community or for citizenry, or work by private or public utilities when restoring utility service.
D.
Temporary Activities and Events. Authorized outdoor or indoor events, gatherings, shows, bands, fairs, festivals, weddings, sporting events entertainment and similar events provided such activities take place between 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and do not exceed an L eq of 65 dBA when measured at any point on the property line over any 30 minute period.
E.
Maintenance of Residential Property. Noise sources associated with maintenance of residential property, provided such activities take place between 7:00 a.m. to sunset.
F.
Parks and Schools. Activities conducted in public parks, public playgrounds and public or private school grounds provided such activities take place between:
1.
7:00 a.m. to sunset for unlighted facilities.
7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. for lighted facilities.
Such activities include, but are not limited to athletic and entertainment events.
G.
Private Recreation. Private recreational activities provided such activities take place between 7:00 am to sunset and do not exceed an L eq of 65 dBA when measured at any point on the property line over any 30 minute period. Such activities include, but are not limited to off-road vehicles, pleasure motor boats, and gunfire from target practice consistent with all State laws on private property.
H.
State and Federal Preemption. Any activity to the extent regulation thereof has been preempted by state or federal law.
I.
Waste Disposal Activities. Waste disposal collection activities provided such activities do not take place within 500 feet of any area zoned for residential use earlier than 5:30 a.m. or later than 8:00 p.m., except in an emergency or with the approval of the County.
J.
Legally Established Uses.
1.
Allowed activities generated by a legally established use (e.g. a commercial or employment use) impacting non-conforming uses (e.g. a residential use) that, if legally established, would be considered a noise sensitive use.
2.
Any land use for which a valid land use approval, entitlement, or permit has been issued by the county prior to the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter.