Elizabeth, NJ
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Elizabeth, NJ.
Ordinance Summary
Elizabeth, NJ's noise control ordinance (Chapter 8.48) prohibits excessive, unnecessary, or unusually loud noise that annoys or disturbs. Specific quiet hours vary by noise source, with restrictions starting as early as 9:00 p.m. for amplified sound and ending by 7:00 a.m. on weekdays, and later on weekends or holidays. The ordinance focuses on a 'plainly audible' standard rather than specific decibel limits.
Quiet Hours
Weekdays: generally 9:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. for amplified sound and loudspeakers. Sundays/Legal Holidays: 9:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m. for radios/TV/sound amplifiers, and 9:00 p.m. to 11:00 a.m. for loudspeakers. Street sales and shouting are restricted between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. on weekdays, and until 9:00 a.m. on Sundays or holidays. New Jersey state law generally sets quiet hours from 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.
Police Non-Emergency
Not specifiedDecibel Limits
"The Elizabeth, NJ noise ordinance primarily relies on a 'plainly audible' or 'noise disturbance' standard and does not specify local decibel limits approved by the NJDEP. New Jersey state regulations establish general sound level standards for stationary commercial and industrial sources and residential areas: 65 dBA during the day (7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.) and 50 dBA at night (10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.) for residential receptors, and 65 dBA at all times for commercial/industrial receptors."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Elizabeth, NJ code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Not specified in Elizabeth's ordinance. State or county regulations may apply.
Operation of radios, television sets, musical instruments, drums, phonographs, or similar sound reproduction devices is prohibited if plainly audible or creating a noise disturbance across a property boundary or through common partitions between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. on weekdays, and between 9:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m. on Sundays or legal holidays. Loudspeakers for commercial or non-commercial purposes are similarly restricted between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. on weekdays, and 9:00 p.m. and 11:00 a.m. on Sundays or legal holidays.
Owning, keeping, possessing, or harboring any animal (dog, cat, bird, etc.) which, by frequent, continual, or habitual howling, barking, meowing, squawking, or other noise-making, causes a noise disturbance. This applies to public and private facilities including pounds, shelters, kennels, and pet shops.
The sounding of any horn or other signaling device on any motor vehicle is prohibited except as a danger warning or as required by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Act.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
Weekdays: generally 9:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. for amplified sound and loudspeakers. Sundays/Legal Holidays: 9:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m. for radios/TV/sound amplifiers, and 9:00 p.m. to 11:00 a.m. for loudspeakers. Street sales and shouting are restricted between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. on weekdays, and until 9:00 a.m. on Sundays or holidays. New Jersey state law generally sets quiet hours from 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m..
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: Not specified.
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Noise Solutions for Elizabeth, NJ
SolvedBest Gear for Elizabeth, NJ Residents
Ultrasonic Bark Control
Humane deterrent that emits a high-frequency sound when it detects barking.
Loop Quiet Ear Plugs
The "gold standard" for sleeping. Reduces noise by 24dB without the pain of foam plugs.
1/2" Thick Rug Pad
Essential for the "80% Rule." Adds density to rugs to absorb footfall impact noise for downstairs neighbors.
Hemp Calming Chews
Natural relief for dog anxiety. Perfect for separation anxiety barking or fear of fireworks.
ThunderShirt for Dogs
The best solution for anxiety-induced barking (fireworks, thunder, separation).
Marpac Dohm Classic
The original fan-based machine. Unlike digital loops, this creates real rushing air sound.
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