Noise — Air Conditioning or Ventilation Equipment

Outdoor HVAC, compressor, and ventilation equipment must comply with DEP sound-level limits. Persistent mechanical humming or rattling from rooftop or sidewalk-level units — especially at night — is a common DEP noise complaint.

• rooftop or window AC unit running loudly at night visible from street
• commercial HVAC compressor on sidewalk vault grating emitting constant loud hum
• ventilation fan on building facade clearly audible from sidewalk

1. Note date, time, and duration — DEP uses logs for pattern enforcement.
2. If safe, capture video showing source (construction site, bar speakers, vehicle).
3. File at 311 under Noise; specify commercial, construction, or vehicle.
4. For after-hours construction, also note whether a variance permit is posted.

Official channel: portal.311.nyc.gov or dial 311. Agency: NYC DEP.

DEP civil penalties can reach thousands of dollars for repeat commercial and construction noise. NYPD may respond to late-night party complaints.

DEP inspectors may take sound readings. Construction noise outside hours triggers DOB variance checks. Repeat locations enter DEP enforcement tracking.

• Noise complaints