NYC uses receiver-based dB limits: 42 dB(A) inside a neighbor residence for commercial noise, 45 dB(A) for residential AC, 7 dB above ambient at property lines 10 PM–7 AM.
The NYC Noise Code (NYC Admin Code Title 24, Subchapter 5) establishes specific decibel thresholds rather than a single citywide limit. For commercial establishments and industrial sources, noise cannot exceed 42 dB(A) as measured inside any nearby residence, or exceed ambient by 7 dB(A) at the property line between 10 PM and 7 AM. Residential air conditioners and heat pumps are limited to 45 dB(A) at the property line. Motor vehicles have federal/state standards but trucks over 55 dB(A) at 50 feet can be cited. Circulation devices and compactor operations have specific 42 dB(A) interior limits. Construction noise is governed by §24-219 and requires a Noise Mitigation Plan on file with DEP; typical plans allow 85 dB(A) at 50 feet during permitted hours. Alarms cannot sound longer than 3 minutes (car) or 15 minutes (building). Dog barking over 5 continuous minutes (before 7 AM, after 10 PM) or 10 minutes at other times is a violation under §24-235. DEP uses calibrated ANSI Type 2 sound meters for enforcement readings.
Civil penalties range from $70 for minor residential infractions to $24,000 for repeat commercial violations. Construction without an approved Noise Mitigation Plan: $3,500 to $25,000 per day.
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