Hempstead, NY Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)
Amplified music rules in Hempstead, NY, also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances, set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Key Facts
- Amplified device ban
- Radios, speakers, PA systems crossing property line
- Standard used
- 'Noise disturbance,' no decibel meter
- Time restriction
- None for Subsections B and K
- Public-property exemption
- Public speaking/assembly under § 144-2(B)
- Maximum penalty
- $250 fine or 15 days jail
Summary
Hempstead's noise code bars operating a radio, television, sound amplifier or similar device that creates a 'noise disturbance' across a property line, and separately bans any loudspeaker or amplifier whose sound creates unreasonable noise across a boundary. Both bans in § 144-3(B) and § 144-3(K) apply at any hour, with no set decibel meter or licensed exemption.
B. Operating, playing or permitting the operation or playing of any radio, television, phonograph, drum, musical instrument, sound amplifier or similar device which produces, reproduces or amplifies sound in such a manner as to create a noise disturbance across a real property boundary. ... K. The use of any loudspeaker or amplifier device such that the sound therefrom creates unreasonable noise across a real property boundary.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4863878; v67 updated 2026-04-28; through 04-28-2026).
Full Breakdown
Section 144-3 of the Unreasonable Noise chapter singles out amplified sound in two subsections. ' That means a backyard party speaker, a home stereo or a business's outdoor sound system can violate the code the moment it crosses onto a neighbor's property at a disturbing volume, day or night. appears in § 144-3(L), which reaches sound differently than the boundary-crossing rules in B and K. Public speaking and public assembly activities on public property are carved out of the general prohibition in § 144-2(B), but that exemption does not extend to the amplified-device bans in Subsection K or the boundary-crossing rule in Subsection B.
Violations & Fines
An offense against § 144-3(B) or § 144-3(K) is punishable under § 144-7 by a fine of up to $250, imprisonment for up to 15 days, or both, for each violation. There is no separate administrative fine schedule for amplified sound; a Town or Nassau County police officer can issue a violation on the spot once the disturbance crosses the property line.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a decibel limit for outdoor speakers in Hempstead?
Can I play amplified music at a backyard party at any hour?
What is the penalty for violating the amplified-sound rule?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Hempstead
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