Princeton, NJ
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Princeton, NJ.
Ordinance Summary
Princeton, NJ noise ordinances, primarily Chapter 21, prohibit loud, continuous, or excessive noise that endangers public health, safety, or welfare, or disturbs comfort. Specific regulations govern construction, amplified sound, animal noise, refuse collection, and various landscaping equipment operation hours. Violations can result in fines as per the general penalty code.
Quiet Hours
11PM-7AM (for amplified sound plainly audible in residences)
Police Non-Emergency
609-921-2100Decibel Limits
"Princeton's ordinance refers to State law for decibel levels for amplified music at private events, but does not specify local decibel limits."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Princeton, NJ code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
General construction/demolition hours are 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekdays and 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Saturdays. Prohibited on Sundays, except for urgent public health and safety necessity with a permit. Homeowners performing interior/exterior repairs may work between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.
Operation of sound-producing devices plainly audible within any neighboring residence is prohibited between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Music amplification at privately sponsored events is permitted without a specific permit from 12:00 noon to 10:00 p.m., provided state decibel regulations are met. Permits are required for other times.
Keeping any animal, including birds or dogs, that causes frequent or long-continued noise disturbing others' comfort or repose is unlawful. A dog barking continually for 10 minutes or intermittently for 30 minutes, plainly audible at 50 feet, is prima facie evidence of a violation.
Buses, trucks, and tractors cannot be warmed up near homes between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Unnecessary and repeated idling, acceleration, starting, or stopping of vehicles and motorcycles is prohibited from 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.
Gas-powered leaf blowers are prohibited from December 16 to March 14 and May 16 to September 30. During allowed periods (March 15-May 15 and October 1-December 15), use is 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Mon-Fri) and 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Sat), prohibited on Sundays and Thanksgiving. Power lawnmowers, electric/battery-powered leaf blowers, chainsaws, hedge trimmers, string trimmers, and pole trimmers are allowed 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Mon-Fri), 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Sat), and 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. (Sundays and holidays). Other gas-powered equipment (chainsaws, snow blowers, portable generators) are banned on Sundays and specific holidays, and allowed 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Mon-Fri) and 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Sat). Emergency use of some equipment is permitted.
Collection, transportation, or disposal of refuse is prohibited on Sundays, or other than between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. on other days, except for urgent public health and safety necessity with a permit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
11PM-7AM (for amplified sound plainly audible in residences).
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: 609-921-2100.
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Noise Solutions for Princeton, NJ
SolvedBest Gear for Princeton, 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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