Noise Rules: Fair Lawn vs Garfield

Can guests at my rental play music outdoors at night?

Amplified outdoor music after 10 p.m. typically violates Fair Lawn's noise rules. Hosts should set written house rules and ensure guests respect quiet hours.

Who handles noise complaints from a short-term rental?

Neighbors call the Fair Lawn Police Department non-emergency line. Officers can issue summonses and document complaints that may affect the rental registration.

Are there special quiet hours for Airbnb guests in Garfield?

No — Garfield does not have a short-term rental-specific quiet-hour rule. STR guests are subject to the same general municipal noise ordinance that applies to every Garfield resident, which is built on the New Jersey Noise Control Act framework (N.J.S.A. 13:1G-1) and N.J.A.C. 7:29 decibel standards. Hosts should review the current quiet-hour times in Garfield's local code on eCode360 before drafting house rules.

Am I responsible for my guest's noise?

Yes. Garfield Code Chapter 131 (Dwelling and Rooming Units) requires every licensed sleeping accommodation to be in charge of a custodian or caretaker responsible for compliance with all Garfield ordinances. That means the licensed operator — not just the guest — can be cited and have the Chapter 131 license revoked for substantiated noise violations originating at the rental.

How are noise complaints reported?

Active disturbances are reported through the Garfield Police Department non-emergency line (or 911 for in-progress emergencies). Persistent or measured-decibel violations under N.J.A.C. 7:29 can be investigated by the Garfield Health Officer or the Bergen County Department of Health Services, which has certified NJ DEP noise-control officers.