Albany, NY Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Albany, NY?
| Regulation | Details for Albany, NY |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 8PM-6AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 518-438-4000 |
8:00 PM - 6:00 AM (general); 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM (construction)
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Albany, NY Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Albany, NY?
Albany, NY's noise ordinance, found in Chapter 255 (Peace and Good Order), Article V (Unnecessary and Unusual Noises), prohibits unreasonable, unnecessary, or unusual noise that disturbs the comfort, repose, health, peace, or safety of a reasonable person, particularly during designated quiet hours. The ordinance addresses various sources, including amplified sound, animals, vehicles, and construction activities, requiring permits for some amplified sounds and setting specific hours for construction.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | N/A | N/A |
Note: The ordinance relies on a 'reasonable person of normal sensitivities' standard rather than explicit decibel limits.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
It is unlawful to operate loud construction equipment (e.g., pile driver, steam shovel, pneumatic hammer, derrick, hoists) between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., unless written permission is obtained from the Commissioner of Buildings and Regulatory Compliance for emergencies. Normal and reasonable construction noise is permissible between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.
- Amplified Sound:
It is unlawful to use or operate devices for sound amplification in front of or outside any building, through any window/doorway, or on any public street or vehicle without a permit from the Chief of Police. Permits may be withheld if they could foster a violation or if the operation is within 250 feet of a school, hospital, court, or place of worship and would disrupt activities.
- Animals:
It is unlawful to own, keep, or harbor any dog that by frequent or habitual howling, yelping, barking, or otherwise causes serious annoyance or disturbance to a reasonable person or the neighborhood.
- Vehicles:
It is unlawful to use a vehicle horn or other signaling device except as a reasonable danger warning, or to produce sounds that are unreasonable, unnecessarily loud or harsh, or continue for an unnecessary and unreasonable period. Loud noises or music from vehicles that can be heard outside the property boundary or vehicle are also prohibited.
Frequently Asked Questions about Albany, NY Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Albany, NY?
8:00 PM - 6:00 AM (general); 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM (construction). Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Albany, NY?
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 Albany, NY?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Albany, NY police non-emergency line at 518-438-4000. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 518-434-5995.