New Brunswick, NJ Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)

Section 8.28.050 of the New Brunswick Municipal Code is the city's rule on amplified sound from stationary sources. Subsection (A) begins with the general prohibition: no person shall cause, suffer, allow or permit to be made verbally or mechanically any noise disturbance. Section 8.28.010 defines a noise disturbance as any sound that endangers the safety or health of any person, disturbs a reasonable person of normal sensitivities, or endangers personal or real property. The test turns on the effect of the sound, not on a decibel reading, although Table I in § 8.28.040 sets separate dBA limits for stationary sources.

Subsection (B)(1), on sound reproduction systems, bars operating, playing or permitting the operation or playing of any radio, television, phonograph or similar device that reproduces or amplifies sound in such a manner as to create a noise disturbance for any person other than the operator of the device. No hour window is attached to that clause, so it applies around the clock.

Subsection (B)(2), on loudspeakers and public address systems, adds a time rule. Using or operating any loudspeaker, public address system or similar device between the hours of ten p.m. and eight a.m. in the following day is prohibited when the sound creates a noise disturbance across a residential real property line.

A separate rule covers vehicles. Section 8.28.070(D) prohibits operating or playing a radio, tape player or similar device in or on a motor vehicle on a public right-of-way or public space in a way that creates a noise at fifty feet (fifteen meters) from the device.

Exemptions matter for events. Noncommercial public speaking and public assembly on a public space or public right-of-way is exempt under § 8.28.050(A). Section 8.28.090 exempts noise from municipally sponsored or approved celebrations or events, and activities in public parks, playgrounds or public buildings under permission or activity of municipal officials. Section 8.28.100 lets the noise control administrator grant a variance.