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AC units, heat pumps and generators in Washington, DC

New and replacement AC units, heat pumps and generators all need permits in DC. AC units and heat pumps may not exceed 60 dBA at the property line at any hour. The general residential limit is 60 dBA by day and 55 dBA at night.

A person last checked these rules on October 20, 2026. This is guidance only, so confirm with Washington before you build.

The details

  • DOB lists new and replacement HVAC equipment as permit work.High confidence
  • Residential limits at the property line: 60 dB(A) from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and 55 dB(A) from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m.. Air conditioners and heat pumps are capped at 60 dB(A) at any hour.High confidence
  • Gas generators also need a fuel-gas permit. Generators used only in emergencies are usually tested during the day to stay under the night limit.Medium confidence

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Common questions

Where can outdoor mechanical equipment go in Washington?
New and replacement AC units, heat pumps and generators all need permits in DC. AC units and heat pumps may not exceed 60 dBA at the property line at any hour. The general residential limit is 60 dBA by day and 55 dBA at night.

Sources

  1. DC Department of Buildings, How to get a permit. Checked 2026-10-20
    Unless you are in a historic district, the following work does not require a building permit: ... Replacement in-kind of ... Private sidewalks and driveways; Patios ... Single garden storage shed that does not exceed 50 square feet (4.65 m2) in area and is …
  2. DC Noise Regulation Handbook (20 DCMR §§ 2701, 2801, 2802, 2803). Checked 2026-10-21
    [Residential zones, at the property line] Daytime (7 a.m. to 9 p.m.): 60 dB(A); Nighttime (9 p.m. to 7 a.m.): 55 dB(A)... [Noise from] air conditioners, refrigerators, heat pumps, fans... shall be prohibited in excess of sixty (60) dB(A) when measured at th…

Disclaimer: This is general information, not legal or professional advice for any one property. Codes change. SetbackIQ is not a zoning determination, a permit, or a survey, and it does not replace an architect, engineer, or lawyer. Confirm with your building and zoning offices before you build, buy, or sign a contract.