Passaic, NJ Filming & Production: Production Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Noise standard
- Must comply with Chapter 193 (§ 135-5A)
- Night filming
- Allowed only if not disruptive (§ 135-2E)
- Abatement duty
- Minimize noise near neighbors (§ 135-5D)
- Revocation trigger
- Noise detrimental to public welfare (§ 135-3F)
- Max penalty
- $1,250 fine or 90 days jail (§ 135-7)
Summary
Passaic ties on-location filming noise to its citywide noise code rather than setting a separate decibel limit. § 135-5A requires every film permit holder to keep noise within Chapter 193's limits, and § 135-5D directs crews to abate noise near adjoining residents as much as practicable.
As a condition of any permit granted under this chapter, the applicant agrees to comply with all federal, state and local laws and regulations at all times, including but not limited to laws regarding public nudity, lewdness and public decency. Noise shall be limited in order to comply with Chapter 193 of the Code of the City of Passaic. ... The holder of a permit shall conduct filming in such a manner as to minimize the inconvenience or discomfort to adjoining property owners attributable to such filming and shall, to the extent practicable, abate noise and not park vehicles associated with such filming on public streets.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4978046; v41 updated 2026-07-01; through 07-01-2026).
Full Breakdown
window set in § 135-2E) is only authorized on a showing that it will not 'significantly disrupt the peace and quiet of residents in the vicinity,' noisy overnight shoots face a higher bar than daytime work. The Film Permit Coordinator can revoke a permit under § 135-3F if the production's noise or other impacts become detrimental to public peace, health, safety or welfare, and the Mayor independently holds that same revocation power. Producers using loud equipment, generators, sound stages or amplified sound therefore need to plan around Chapter 193's citywide noise standards, since Chapter 135 does not carve out any separate, looser threshold for film sets.
Violations & Fines
A production that exceeds Chapter 193 noise limits, or that fails to abate noise near adjoining residents as § 135-5D requires, is in violation of its filming permit and Chapter 135. § 135-7 sets a fine of up to $1,250 per offense or up to 90 days in jail, and the Film Permit Coordinator or the Mayor can revoke the permit outright under § 135-3F if noise becomes detrimental to public welfare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Passaic set a special noise limit for film shoots?
Can a permit be revoked for a noisy film shoot in Passaic?
Can filming happen at night in Passaic without extra noise justification?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Passaic
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Production Noise in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Passaic County handle production noise.