Buffalo, NY Noise Ordinances: Decibel Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Threshold above ambient
- 5 decibels in any octave band
- Measurement standard
- ANSI sound-level meter + octave band analyzer (S1.4-1971)
- A-scale shortcut
- A-scale reading minus 8 dB = noise-rating number
- Cross-district rule
- Sound entering a quieter district must meet the quieter district's limits
- Measurement location
- Complainant's premises, ≥3 ft above ground, ≥3 ft from walls
Summary
Buffalo's noise ordinance uses noise-rating numbers rather than a single A-weighted dB limit: noise must exceed the ambient level by 5 decibels or more in any octave band to be declared excessive. Sound crossing from a louder zoning district into a quieter one must comply with the quieter district's limits.
§ 293-5. Additional guidelines to determine unreasonable noise.
A. The subject noise must exceed ambient noise by five decibels or more in any octave band to be declared excessive or unreasonable.
B. Sound projecting from one use district into another use district having a lower noise-level limit shall not exceed the limits of the district into which it is projected.
§ 293-6. Methods of measurement. Noise measurements shall be made with a sound-level meter and compatible octave band analyzer manufactured according to the specification of the American National Standards Institute... Except where impractical, sound measurements shall be made from the specific position of the complainant at the premises from which noise complaints are received and shall be made at a height of at least three feet above the ground and three feet away from walls, barriers, obstructions or other sound-reflective surfaces.
Full Breakdown
Measurements are taken at the complainant's premises using an ANSI-standard sound-level meter and octave band analyzer. The resulting noise-rating number is plotted against ISO noise-rating curves. When detailed octave-band analysis is impractical, an A-scale reading minus 8 dB may be used as the noise-rating number. The cross-district rule prevents commercial-zone noise sources from legally sending noise into adjacent residential zones at commercial-zone thresholds.
Violations & Fines
Up to $1,500 fine or 15 days imprisonment under § 293-7 if measurements confirm the noise exceeds the threshold.
Frequently Asked Questions
What equipment is used to measure noise?
Does a noise need to be louder than a set dB number to be a violation?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Buffalo
New York rules heatmap·Compare Buffalo to another location·View the New York noise ordinances overview
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