Utica, NY Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]

When are quiet hours in Utica, NY?

10PM-7AM weekdays, 10PM-8AM weekends

Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.

Who To Call (Non-Emergency)

315-735-3301How to file a complaint →

Utica, NY Noise Rules

Verified 2026

What is the noise ordinance in Utica, NY?

Utica, NY noise ordinances, primarily Chapter 2-15, Article III of the City Code, prohibit excessive, unusually loud, unreasonable, and objectionable noises disturbing public peace. Regulations cover quiet hours (10 PM-7 AM weekdays, 10 PM-8 AM weekends), animal sounds, amplified sound, and vehicle noise. Violations can lead to penalties outlined in the City Code.

Decibel Limit Comparison

Decibel limits for residential and commercial zones in Utica, NY
Zone TypeDayNight
ResidentialNot explicitly specified in available snippets, referred to in § 2-15-63 of City Code. Can be increased by 10 db(A) for 15 minutes per hour between 7 AM and 10 PM.Not explicitly specified in available snippets, referred to in § 2-15-63 of City Code.
CommercialNot explicitly specified in available snippets, referred to in § 2-15-62 and § 2-15-63 of City Code.Not explicitly specified in available snippets, referred to in § 2-15-62 and § 2-15-63 of City Code.

Note: Power equipment rated 5 horsepower or less shall not exceed 75 db(A) at 50 feet during daytime hours. Power equipment rated more than 5 horsepower shall not exceed 82 db(A) at 50 feet during daytime hours. Noise exceeding maximum permissible sound levels by land use categories in Section 2-15-62 is unlawful.

Specific Restrictions

  • Construction:

    Operation of power equipment in residential zones outdoors is unlawful between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. on weekdays and between 10:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. on weekends. Domestic power tools, lawn mowers, and agricultural equipment are exempt between 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. on weekdays and 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. on weekends. All construction costing $1000 or more requires a building permit.

  • Amplified Sound:

    Unlawful to operate radios, televisions, musical instruments, loudspeakers, or similar devices in parks, playgrounds, or recreation areas between 9:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. without a permit. Commercial advertising via loudspeakers on streets or public property requires a permit. Unlawful to operate such devices plainly audible at 7.5 meters (25 feet) on a public right-of-way, in a public park, or from a motor vehicle.

  • Animals:

    It is unlawful to own or harbor any animal or bird that frequently or for continued duration howls, barks, meows, squawks, or makes other sounds creating a noise disturbance.

  • Vehicles:

    It is unlawful to sound any horn or signaling device on any street or public place for purposes other than motor vehicle, driver, or pedestrian safety. Motorcycles, motor-driven cycles, and off-highway motor vehicles causing noise on public and private property are regulated.

Frequently Asked Questions about Utica, NY Noise Rules

What are the designated quiet hours in Utica, NY?

10PM-7AM weekdays, 10PM-8AM weekends. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.

How loud can I play music in Utica, NY?

Residential areas typically have a limit of Not explicitly specified in available snippets, referred to in § 2-15-63 of City Code. Can be increased by 10 db(A) for 15 minutes per hour between 7 AM and 10 PM. during the day and Not explicitly specified in available snippets, referred to in § 2-15-63 of City Code. 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 Utica, NY?

For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Utica, NY police non-emergency line at 315-735-3301. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 315-792-0163.

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