New York, NY Noise Ordinances: Decibel Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Music limit
- 42 dB(A) inside a residence
- Bass cap
- 45 dB, 63–500 Hz band
- Ambient cap
- 6 dB(C) over ambient
- Enforcer
- DEP
- Statute
- Admin Code § 24-231(a)
Summary
NYC's Noise Code caps music from bars, nightclubs, restaurants, and other commercial establishments at 42 dB(A) measured inside any neighboring residence, plus tighter bass and ambient-increase limits, all enforced by the Department of Environmental Protection.
No person shall make or cause or permit to be made or caused any music originating from or in connection with the operation of any commercial establishment or enterprise when the level of sound attributable to such music, as measured inside any receiving property dwelling unit: (1) is in excess of 42 dB(A) as measured with a sound level meter; or (2) is in excess of 45 dB in any one-third octave band having a center frequency between 63 hertz and 500 hertz ... in accordance with American National Standards Institute standard S1.6-1984; or (3) causes a 6 dB(C) or more increase in the total sound level above the ambient sound level ...
Full Breakdown
Under Administrative Code § 24-231(a), music from any commercial establishment or enterprise cannot exceed 42 dB(A) measured inside a receiving property dwelling unit. Two further caps apply at the same time: no more than 45 dB in any one-third octave band centered between 63 and 500 hertz (aimed at bass), and no 6 dB(C) or greater rise above ambient once background sound already exceeds 62 dB(C). DEP inspectors measure with a sound level meter inside the complaining resident's unit. The standard took effect with the 2007 Noise Code overhaul and applies citywide.
Violations & Fines
DEP issues notices of violation for exceeding these limits; fines escalate with repeat offenses and are adjudicated at the Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings (OATH).
Frequently Asked Questions
How loud can a bar's music be in NYC?
Who enforces commercial music noise limits in NYC?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in New York
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