Paterson, NJ Noise from Specific Sources: Generator Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Exempt use
- During an actual power outage
- Covered sites
- Industrial, commercial, community service
- Not covered
- Routine testing or residential runs
Summary
Paterson excuses emergency electricity generators at industrial, commercial or community-service facilities from its noise limits, but only while they're running during an actual power outage.
Except as provided in §§ 337-10 and 337-11 below, the provisions of this chapter shall not apply to the exceptions listed at N.J.A.C. 7:29-1.5. These exemptions are set forth below: ... (14) Emergency electricity generators at an industrial, commercial, or community service facility in use during an electrical outage.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4713536; v19 updated 2025-12-16; through 12-16-2025).
Full Breakdown
Chapter 337 adopts the state exemption list at N.J.A.C. 7:29-1.5, and item (14) exempts emergency electricity generators at an industrial, commercial, or community service facility in use during an electrical outage. Outside an actual outage, routine testing, maintenance runs, or generators at ordinary residential properties, the exemption does not apply and the chapter's sound-level limits and enforcement provisions (§§ 337-8 through 337-12) govern as usual.
Violations & Fines
Generator noise outside a genuine outage, or at a property type not listed, is subject to Chapter 337's standard sound-level limits and enforcement penalties under § 337-12.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a backup generator exempt from Paterson's noise rules?
Can a business test its generator loudly anytime?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Paterson
Compare Paterson to another location·View the New Jersey noise from specific sources overview
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