The Resolution Path
1. Local Ordinance
2. Document Evidence
3. Resolve Dispute
The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3Brooklyn, NY
Noise Ordinance Overview
You’ve located the ordinance. Now, compare your situation against the legal thresholds to build your case.
Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"Noise exceeding ambient sound level by more than 10 dB at 15 feet from source is generally prohibited. Bass sounds (C-weighted) cannot exceed 6 dB(C) above ambient sound if ambient is greater than 62 dB(C). Construction after-hours: 7dB(A) above ambient level inside residential dwelling units (for sites > 200 feet from residential property); 75dB(A) when measured outside property line or on public right-of-way 50 feet or greater from the source when the source is within 200 feet of the affected residential property; 85dB(A) for street construction noise measured outside property line or on public right-of-way 50 feet or greater from source."
AI Executive Summary
Brooklyn, NY noise ordinances, governed by the New York City Noise Code (Title 24, Chapter 2 of the NYC Administrative Code), prohibit unreasonable noise that disturbs public health and comfort. Quiet hours are generally 10 PM to 7 AM, with specific decibel limits and restrictions for construction, amplified sound, animals, and vehicles. Violations can result in significant fines.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
General construction/demolition is permitted weekdays from 7 AM to 6 PM. Alterations or repairs to owner-occupied one or two-family dwellings may occur on Saturdays and Sundays between 10 AM and 4 PM, if the dwelling is more than 300 feet from a house of worship. After-hours and weekend work require special authorization and a noise mitigation plan. Construction equipment must be outfitted with noise-reducing mufflers and have portable street barriers.
Amplified Sound
Permits are required from local NYPD precincts for amplified sound devices. The use of sound devices for commercial and business advertising purposes is generally unlawful. Sound levels from bars/restaurants cannot exceed 42 decibels as measured in adjacent residences, or 7 decibels over the ambient street noise levels 15 feet or more from the source between 10 PM and 7 AM. Outdoor events with amplified music should not exceed 70 decibels.
Animals
Pet owners are responsible for limiting animal noises. Excessive animal noise warrants enforcement if it can be heard for 10 consecutive minutes between 7 AM and 10 PM, or 5 continuous minutes between 10 PM and 7 AM.
Vehicles
Excessive noise from vehicle mufflers or exhaust systems is prohibited; horns are only permitted as a warning of danger. Sound is too loud if clearly audible from 150 feet or more for vehicles under 10,000 lbs, 200 feet or more for vehicles over 10,000 lbs, or 200 feet from a motorcycle. Refuse collection vehicles have specific noise limits: maximum 80 dB at 35 feet, or 80 dB within 50 feet of residential property between 11 PM and 7 AM.
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