Queens, NY
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Queens, NY.
Ordinance Summary
New York City's Noise Control Code, applicable in Queens, regulates excessive and unreasonable sounds to protect public health and welfare. It establishes specific decibel limits and time restrictions for various noise sources, including construction, commercial establishments, vehicles, and animal noise, with stricter rules generally enforced during nighttime hours to ensure residential peace. Violations can result in significant fines.
Quiet Hours
Residential areas typically have stricter noise regulations between 10 PM and 7 AM. Commercial activities impacting residential sleeping areas must not exceed 45 dB(A) from 10 PM to 7 AM. Animal noise is restricted if continuous for 5 minutes or more between 10 PM and 7 AM, and 10 minutes or more between 7 AM and 10 PM. Construction is generally limited to weekdays 7 AM - 6 PM, with exceptions for owner-occupied residential work on weekends (10 AM - 4 PM) and permitted after-hours work. Lawn care devices are restricted before 8 AM and after 7 PM (or sunset, whichever is later) on weekdays, and between 9 AM - 6 PM on holidays and weekends. Amplified sound is prohibited after 10 PM.
Police Non-Emergency
311 (or 212-NEW-YORK / 212-639-9675 outside NYC)Decibel Limits
"Decibel limits often depend on the specific noise source and measurement location. Outdoor amplified sound for events should not exceed 70 decibels. Bass sounds may not exceed 6 dB(C) above ambient if ambient is greater than 62 dB(C)."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Queens, NY code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
General construction and demolition activities are allowed on weekdays between 7 AM and 6 PM. Alterations or repairs to one- or two-family owner-occupied dwellings, convents, or rectories may occur on Saturdays and Sundays between 10 AM and 4 PM, provided they are 300 or more feet from a house of worship. Emergency work or work with an approved variance is exempt from these hours. A noise mitigation plan is required for construction projects. Noise from air compressors must not exceed 75 dB(A) at nearby sidewalks, pedestrian crossings or dwellings.
New York City noise codes prohibit amplification after 10 PM. Outdoor events playing music must limit sound levels to not exceed 70 decibels.
No person shall permit an animal under their control to cause unreasonable noise. Enforcement action may be taken if animal noise is plainly audible from a residential property for 10 continuous minutes or more between 7 AM and 10 PM, or 5 continuous minutes or more between 10 PM and 7 AM.
Vehicle muffler or exhaust systems are too loud if sound can be heard from 150 feet or more for vehicles under 10,000 pounds, or 200 feet or more for vehicles over 10,000 pounds and motorcycles, on public roads with a speed limit of 35 mph or less. Non-emergency horn honking is prohibited. Food vending vehicles may only play jingles while in motion. Noise from refuse compacting vehicles is limited between 11 PM and 7 AM within 50 feet of residential property.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
Residential areas typically have stricter noise regulations between 10 PM and 7 AM. Commercial activities impacting residential sleeping areas must not exceed 45 dB(A) from 10 PM to 7 AM. Animal noise is restricted if continuous for 5 minutes or more between 10 PM and 7 AM, and 10 minutes or more between 7 AM and 10 PM. Construction is generally limited to weekdays 7 AM - 6 PM, with exceptions for owner-occupied residential work on weekends (10 AM - 4 PM) and permitted after-hours work. Lawn care devices are restricted before 8 AM and after 7 PM (or sunset, whichever is later) on weekdays, and between 9 AM - 6 PM on holidays and weekends. Amplified sound is prohibited after 10 PM..
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: 311 (or 212-NEW-YORK / 212-639-9675 outside NYC).
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Noise Solutions for Queens, NY
SolvedBest Gear for Queens, NY 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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