Manhattan, NY Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Manhattan, NY?
| Regulation | Details for Manhattan, NY |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 311 or 212-NEW-YORK (212-639-9675) (for non-emergencies); NYPD General Inquiries: 646-610-5000 |
10 PM - 7 AM
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Manhattan, NY Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Manhattan, NY?
Manhattan, NY, operating under the New York City Noise Code (Title 24, Chapter 2 of the Administrative Code), prohibits unreasonable noise to protect public health and peace. Quiet hours are generally from 10 PM to 7 AM, with specific decibel limits for residential and commercial areas, and restrictions on construction, amplified sound, and vehicle noise. Violations can lead to significant fines.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 45-55 dB (7 AM - 10 PM weekdays, 8 AM - 10 PM weekends) | 35-45 dB (10 PM - 7 AM weekdays, 10 PM - 8 AM weekends) |
| Commercial | Not to exceed 42 dBA in a dwelling unit receiving noise | Not to exceed 42 dBA in a dwelling unit receiving noise; not to exceed 7 dB over ambient street noise 15+ feet from source (10 PM - 7 AM); bass not to exceed 6 dB above ambient if ambient > 62 dB |
Note: Decibel levels are typically measured in dB(A). Unreasonable noise is generally prohibited.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Commercial, Street, and Highway Construction: Weekdays 7 AM - 6 PM. Residential Construction: Weekdays 7 AM - 6 PM. Alterations/repairs to owner-occupied 1/2-family dwellings: Saturdays and Sundays 10 AM - 4 PM (if 300+ feet from a house of worship). After-hours work requires a permit and a noise mitigation plan. Construction noise limit: 10 decibels above ambient noise, 15 feet from source. Abrupt, impulsive loud sounds prohibited. Street construction noise: 85 dBA 50+ feet from source.
- Amplified Sound:
Commercial music (bars, restaurants) not to exceed 42 dBA inside a dwelling unit. Not to exceed 7 dB over ambient street noise 15+ feet from source between 10 PM and 7 AM. Bass noise not to exceed 6 dB above ambient if ambient > 62 dB. Personal audio devices not plainly audible 25 feet away.
- Animals:
Unreasonable animal noise not permitted for 10+ minutes continuously between 7 AM and 10 PM, or 5+ minutes continuously between 10 PM and 7 AM in a residential property.
- Vehicles:
Excessive noise from muffler/exhaust prohibited. Vehicles under 10,000 lbs not audible 150 feet away; vehicles 10,000+ lbs and motorcycles not audible 200 feet away. Horn honking only permitted as warning of imminent danger. Garbage trucks not to exceed 80 dBA at 35 feet from source; compacting trash up to 85 dBA between 11 PM and 7 AM within 50 feet of a residence. Food vending vehicle jingles only while in motion.
- Lawn Care Devices:
Not to be operated or used before 8 AM and after 7 PM or sunset, whichever occurs later.
- HVAC Units:
Single AC/circulating unit not to exceed 42 dBA (measured 3 feet from source at open door/window of dwelling unit); buildings with multiple devices not to exceed 45 dBA.
Frequently Asked Questions about Manhattan, NY Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Manhattan, NY?
10 PM - 7 AM. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Manhattan, NY?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 45-55 dB (7 AM - 10 PM weekdays, 8 AM - 10 PM weekends) during the day and 35-45 dB (10 PM - 7 AM weekdays, 10 PM - 8 AM weekends) 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 Manhattan, NY?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Manhattan, NY police non-emergency line at 311 or 212-NEW-YORK (212-639-9675) (for non-emergencies); NYPD General Inquiries: 646-610-5000. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 311 or 212-NEW-YORK (212-639-9675) (Department of Environmental Protection for noise complaints).