New York, NY Noise from Specific Sources: Car Alarm Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Auto shutoff
- 3 minutes (vehicle)
- Remote trigger range
- 15 feet max
- Enforcement
- NYPD may disconnect alarm
- Non-compliance remedy
- Vehicle may be towed
- Required posting
- Local precinct phone number
Summary
New York City requires any audible car alarm to automatically shut off within three minutes of activation, and bans remote fobs that trigger it from more than 15 feet away.
No owner of a building or of a motor vehicle shall have in operation an audible burglar alarm thereon unless such burglar alarm shall be capable of and shall automatically terminate its operation within fifteen minutes of its being activated in the case of a building, and three minutes of its being activated in the case of a motor vehicle. No audible burglar alarm on a motor vehicle shall be capable of being activated except by: (i) direct physical contact with that motor vehicle; or (ii) through the use of an individual remote activation device, that is activated from no further than 15 feet away from such vehicle...
Full Breakdown
Under the Noise Control Code, no owner may run an audible burglar alarm on a motor vehicle unless it automatically terminates within three minutes of activation. Remote-activation devices are only allowed if triggered by direct contact with the vehicle or by a fob used within 15 feet, and that response must also cut off within three minutes. NYPD officers may disconnect a non-compliant alarm on the spot and can arrange to tow a vehicle if the alarm keeps sounding and cannot be disconnected. Owners must also post their local precinct's contact number on any vehicle equipped with such an alarm.
Violations & Fines
NYPD may disconnect a non-compliant alarm during activation and, if that fails, arrange removal of the vehicle; separate DEP noise-code penalties can apply for a violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can a car alarm legally sound in NYC?
Can police shut off my car alarm?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in New York
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