• General Noise — For most noise complaints, such as car alarms, barking dogs, parties and/or loud music from private residences, vehicles, etc., call the regular SF police non-emergency line at (415) 553-0123.

If your problem lies with a neighbor, bear in mind that it might be simpler, as well as friendlier, to attempt a reasonable discussion before calling the SFPD — that is, if you feel comfortable and safe addressing your neighbor directly. If you do call the police, they will simply pay a visit to the person and investigate your report. However, if you want to file an official noise complaint and charge your neighbor with disturbing the peace, the procedure is not so simple: if the officers deem your complaint warranted, they will have you (the complaintant), sign a citizen’s arrest card which will note the particular infraction and a court date. Next, they will deliver this citation to your neighbor on your behalf. You and the neighbor will then have to work out your conflict in court on the designated day. Keep in mind that you may also call the Community Boards of San Francisco at (415) 920-3820 for help in settling disputes with neighbors.

One final note: if noise is particularly bothersome to you, be sure to look into the neighborhood conditions of any property you plan to buy. For example, loud and annoying rush-hour traffic can be heavy in some areas and might overflow to residential streets. In addition, you might find a loud bar or club on the corner, or perhaps a hospital or fire department in the area. Before committing to buying any new property, be sure to ask about — and investigate first-hand — all the possible sources of noise.