NYC Administrative Code §24-238 requires motor vehicle burglar alarms to automatically terminate within 3 minutes of activation. Alarms may only activate through direct physical contact with the vehicle or a remote device used within 15 feet. Violations result in fines and the vehicle may be towed.
NYC Administrative Code §24-238 imposes strict requirements on motor vehicle burglar alarms. All audible alarms must automatically terminate within 3 minutes of activation. Alarms may only be activated by direct physical contact with the vehicle or by a remote activation device operated from no more than 15 feet away. Motion sensors, sound sensors, and other proximity triggers are prohibited. Car alarms that do not comply with the 3-minute automatic termination requirement are illegal to operate in NYC. Police officers may arrange for the removal (towing) of a vehicle whose alarm has been sounding continuously for more than 15 minutes if the owner cannot be located. The vehicle owner is responsible for all towing and storage costs. Complaints about car alarms are handled through 311. NYPD responds to active car alarm complaints. The DEP noise code fact sheet specifically identifies car alarms as one of the most common noise complaints in the city.
Summons for non-compliant alarm. Vehicle may be towed after 15 minutes of continuous alarm. Owner responsible for towing/storage costs. Fines for alarm violations.
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See how New York's car alarm limits rules stack up against other locations.
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