Princeton, NJ Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Princeton, NJ?
| Regulation | Details for Princeton, NJ |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 11PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 609-921-2100 |
11PM-7AM (for amplified sound plainly audible in residences)
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Princeton, NJ Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Princeton, NJ?
Princeton, NJ noise ordinances, primarily Chapter 21, prohibit loud, continuous, or excessive noise that endangers public health, safety, or welfare, or disturbs comfort. Specific regulations govern construction, amplified sound, animal noise, refuse collection, and various landscaping equipment operation hours. Violations can result in fines as per the general penalty code.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | N/A | N/A |
Note: Princeton's ordinance refers to State law for decibel levels for amplified music at private events, but does not specify local decibel limits.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
General construction/demolition hours are 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekdays and 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturdays. Prohibited on Sundays, except for urgent public health and safety necessity with a permit. Homeowners performing interior/exterior repairs may work between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.
- Amplified Sound:
Operation of sound-producing devices plainly audible within any neighboring residence is prohibited between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Music amplification at privately sponsored events is permitted without a specific permit from 12:00 noon to 10:00 p.m., provided state decibel regulations are met. Permits are required for other times.
- Animals:
Keeping any animal, including birds or dogs, that causes frequent or long-continued noise disturbing others' comfort or repose is unlawful. A dog barking continually for 10 minutes or intermittently for 30 minutes, plainly audible at 50 feet, is prima facie evidence of a violation.
- Vehicles:
Buses, trucks, and tractors cannot be warmed up near homes between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Unnecessary and repeated idling, acceleration, starting, or stopping of vehicles and motorcycles is prohibited from 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.
- Landscaping Equipment:
Gas-powered leaf blowers are prohibited from December 16 to March 14 and May 16 to September 30. During allowed periods (March 15-May 15 and October 1-December 15), use is 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Mon-Fri) and 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Sat), prohibited on Sundays and Thanksgiving. Power lawnmowers, electric/battery-powered leaf blowers, chainsaws, hedge trimmers, string trimmers, and pole trimmers are allowed 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Mon-Fri), 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Sat), and 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Sundays and holidays). Other gas-powered equipment (chainsaws, snow blowers, portable generators) are banned on Sundays and specific holidays, and allowed 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Mon-Fri) and 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Sat). Emergency use of some equipment is permitted.
- Refuse Collection:
Collection, transportation, or disposal of refuse is prohibited on Sundays, or other than between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. on other days, except for urgent public health and safety necessity with a permit.
Frequently Asked Questions about Princeton, NJ Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Princeton, NJ?
11PM-7AM (for amplified sound plainly audible in residences). Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Princeton, NJ?
Residential areas typically have a limit of established limits during the day and stricter limits at night. Excessive vibration or bass that is plainly audible at the property line may also be a violation.
Who do I contact to report a noise violation in Princeton, NJ?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Princeton, NJ police non-emergency line at 609-921-2100. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 609-921-7078 (Building & Construction).