Santa Monica Construction Hours Rules (2026): What You Need to Know

SMMC Section 4.12.110 strictly regulates construction activity noise in Santa Monica. Construction, demolition, excavation, and related work producing loud noise are limited to weekdays from 8 AM to 6 PM and Saturdays from 9 AM to 5 PM. Unlike many neighboring cities, Santa Monica does not allow Sunday or holiday construction under any standard permit. The weekday start time of 8 AM (rather than 7 AM used in many other cities) reflects Santa Monica's emphasis on residential quality of life.

Construction noise must not exceed 90 dBA at any point outside the property line of the construction site. For major development projects, the city may require a construction noise mitigation plan that includes equipment muffling, temporary sound barriers, and designated haul routes. Contractors must post the permitted hours and a complaint phone number at the job site. Emergency utility work and public safety projects may be exempt. Violations can result in stop-work orders and permit revocation in addition to fines.