Mount Vernon, NY Noise from Specific Sources: HVAC & Mechanical Noise (2026)

9 makes it unlawful to operate or permit to be operated an air-conditioning or air-handling device that exceeds the maximum sound-level limitations provided in the section. In areas zoned residential, single-family or multiple-dwelling, continuous sound that has crossed the property line is capped at 55 db(A) at any point, matching recommendations the section credits to the Environmental Protection Agency and the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute. Subsection B carves out a narrow exemption: the limit does not apply if the sound from the unit produces less than a 5 db(A) increase over the ambient sound level that already exists without it, so a unit installed next to a busy street or an already-noisy commercial operation is measured against that baseline rather than the flat 55 db(A) number.

The section works alongside § 178-4B(6), which separately lists air-conditioning, air-handling devices and refrigeration units, including those on trucks, audible at a distance of 50 feet, among the acts the City declares to be loud, disturbing and unnecessary noises. 17, which authorizes a cease-and-desist order and, with a judicial order, sealing the offending unit. 18 sets the penalty at up to $1,000 and up to 15 days in jail, with each day of a continuing violation a separate offense.