Construction hours in Albany, NY — sometimes called construction noise rules or contractor work-hour ordinances — set when contractors can run power tools, hammers, and heavy equipment.
Albany prohibits the use of pile drivers, steam shovels, pneumatic hammers, derricks, and steam or electric hoists between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM under Chapter 255, Article V. Loud construction work during these hours requires written permission from the Commissioner of Buildings and is only allowed in case of emergency. Unreasonable construction noise during the day can still be cited.
Albany City Code Chapter 255, Article V (Unnecessary and Unusual Noises) governs construction noise in the City of Albany. The article makes it unlawful for any person conducting building operations between the hours of 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM to operate or use any pile driver, steam shovel, pneumatic hammer, derrick, steam or electric hoist, or other apparatus the use of which is attended by loud or unusual noise. Written permission from the Commissioner of Buildings is required to operate such equipment during these hours, and only in case of emergency.
The broader Article V also prohibits making, continuing, or causing any unreasonable, unnecessary, or unusual noise that annoys, disturbs, injures, or endangers the comfort, repose, health, peace, or safety of a reasonable person of normal sensitivities. This standard applies during the 6:00 AM–8:00 PM period and during the 8:00 PM–6:00 AM period, with stricter enforcement after 8:00 PM. Local Law Q of 2021 (adopted by the Albany Common Council on October 4, 2021) restructured noise penalties into a graduated fee schedule replacing the prior flat fine. Construction work in residential neighborhoods near University at Albany, College of Saint Rose, Albany Med, and historic districts (Center Square, Mansion Hill) is closely watched. Citation: Albany City Code Ch. 255, Art. V.
Local Law Q of 2021 set graduated fines: up to $250 for a first offense, up to $500 for a second offense, and higher penalties for third and subsequent violations within a 12-month period. Each day of continued violation is a separate offense. Stop-work orders may be issued by the Commissioner of Buildings. Report complaints by calling Albany Police non-emergency at (518) 438-4000 or dialing 311.
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