VERIFIED 2026

Rochester, NY
Noise Code

The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Rochester, NY.

Ordinance Summary

Rochester, NY noise ordinances, detailed in Chapter 75 of its municipal code, prohibit excessive noise to preserve public health, safety, and comfort. General excessive noise is defined by audibility beyond property lines between 10 PM and 8 AM, and 50 feet beyond property lines between 8 AM and 10 PM. Specific rules govern construction, amplified sound, animals, and vehicles.

Quiet Hours

10PM-8AM (general noise audible beyond property line); 10PM-7AM (construction activities).

Police Non-Emergency

311 or 585-428-7033

Decibel Limits

Day
N/A
Night
N/A

"Motor vehicles may not exceed 80 dB(A) at a distance of 25 feet or more on public property, or at the property line on private property."

Measure Noise Levels Instantly

Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Rochester, NY code.

Specific Noise Restrictions

1
Construction

Construction activities creating excessive noise are prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. on any day of the week, unless a variance is granted.

2
Amplified Sound

No person shall operate or use any sound reproduction device on a bus or public conveyance (excluding taxicabs) if the sound is audible to another person. General excessive noise provisions apply to sound reproduction devices.

3
Animals

No person shall keep or permit any animal or bird to make excessive noise. Barking dog complaints can be made to 311.

4
Vehicles

No motor vehicle shall be operated in a manner that emits a sound level exceeding 80 dB(A) at 25 feet or more on public streets/sidewalks/parks, or at the property line on private property. This applies to all motor vehicles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quiet Hours?

10PM-8AM (general noise audible beyond property line); 10PM-7AM (construction activities)..

Construction?

Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.

Who to call?

Use Non-Emergency Police: 311 or 585-428-7033.

Fines?

Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.

Call Police