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SidewalkSnitch / Rulebook / Noise / DEP-NOI-004
Noisy AC or ventilation unit in NYC: the rule and how to report it
Regulation
Noise · NYC DEP · NYC Admin Code §24-227
NYC Admin Code §24-227 covers "circulation devices": air conditioners, fans, pumps, cooling towers and blowers. One device must not be louder than 42 dB(A). If an owner installs a new device or replaces one, all devices on the lot together must not be louder than 45 dB(A). DEP measures inside the home that hears the noise, 3 feet from an open window or terrace door.
The regulation
NYC Admin Code §24-227 (circulation devices) covers air conditioners, fans, pumps, cooling towers and blowers. One device must not be louder than 42 dB(A), and all devices on a lot must not be louder than 45 dB(A) together when one is new or replaced. DEP measures inside the home that hears the noise, 3 feet from an open window or terrace door.
What to photograph
- the AC unit, fan or vent that makes the noise, and where it is on the building
- a short video or audio clip from inside your home with the window open (for information only; a DEP inspector must hear it in person)
- the date and time the noise happens, written down each time
How to file a complaint
- In 311, pick "Noise from Air Conditioner or Ventilation Equipment" (311 KA-01933).
- Give your contact information. DEP cannot set up an inspection without it.
- DEP contacts you within 10 days to set up an inspection. The inspection is from inside your home.
- Photos and video help, but they are for information only. A DEP inspector must hear the noise in person before a summons.
- After the inspection, you can ask DEP for a Noise Inspection Report. Give the service request number, the inspection date and an email or mailing address.
Official channel: portal.311.nyc.gov or dial 311. Agency: NYC DEP.
Penalties & fines
DEP can issue a notice of violation to the owner. For a first violation, there is no penalty if the owner admits it and certifies a fix within 30 days (NYC Admin Code §24-227(d)).
What happens after you file
DEP calls you to set up an inspection inside your home. The inspector measures the sound 3 feet from an open window or terrace door. If the sound is over the limit, DEP can issue a notice of violation to the owner.
This rule is in our public reference corpus for SEO and training. In-app classification is not enabled yet — file via 311 using the steps above.
FAQ
How loud is too loud for an AC unit?
42 dB(A) for one device, measured inside your home 3 feet from an open window. If a device is new or replaced, all devices on the lot together must not be louder than 45 dB(A). (NYC Admin Code §24-227)
Which 311 report do I use?
"Noise from Air Conditioner or Ventilation Equipment" (311 KA-01933).
Can I report it without my name?
No. DEP needs your contact information to set up the inspection. (311 KA-01933)
How soon will DEP come?
DEP contacts you within 10 days to set up an inspection. (311 KA-01933)
Does SidewalkSnitch file it for me?
No. This rule is reference-only in SidewalkSnitch today. File on 311.nyc.gov or call 311.