Amplified music rules in Kings County, NY β also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances β set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
NYC Admin Code Β§24-231 bars amplified sound in public places without an NYPD Sound Device Permit. Bar and residential music cannot exceed 42 dB(A) inside a neighboring dwelling.
Amplified music in Brooklyn is tightly governed by the NYC Noise Code (NYC Admin Code Β§24-231 and Β§24-218). Operating a sound-reproduction device in any public place β sidewalks, parks, stoops β requires a Sound Device Permit issued by the NYPD precinct commander, which is typically limited in duration and prohibited within 500 feet of a school, courthouse, or hospital while in session. For commercial establishments such as bars, restaurants, and music venues in Williamsburg, Bushwick, Bed-Stuy, and elsewhere, bass-heavy music is a common 311 complaint. The code establishes that music from a commercial establishment cannot exceed 42 dB(A) as measured inside any nearby residence, or 7 dB(A) above ambient street noise between 10 PM and 7 AM. Residential amplified music (home stereos, house parties, amplified instruments) that is 'plainly audible' inside a neighbor's dwelling during quiet hours is a violation. DEP inspectors respond to 311 complaints and can issue summonses to venues; repeat offenders risk losing their liquor license through the State Liquor Authority.
Residential first offense: $70 to $175. Commercial establishment: $350 to $1,400 first offense, up to $8,000 for repeat violations. No-permit amplification in public: $350 minimum.
Kings County, NY
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Kings County, NY
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Kings County, NY
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Kings County, NY
Brooklyn residents may keep backyard hens, but roosters, ducks, geese, turkeys, pigs, goats, and sheep are prohibited under NYC Health Code Β§161.01.
Kings County, NY
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Kings County, NY
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See how Kings County's amplified music & events rules stack up against other locations.
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