Noise — Alarm Sounding More Than 10 Minutes

Noise · NYPD / NYC DEP · NYC Admin Code §24-226(5)

Noise — Alarm Sounding More Than 10 Minutes is enforced by NYPD / NYC DEP under NYC Admin Code §24-226(5). Severity default: Medium.

The rule

Building and vehicle alarms that sound continuously for more than ten minutes violate the Noise Control Code. NYPD may silence alarms; DEP tracks recurring alarm noise complaints.

What to photograph

building alarm audible from street for extended period
car alarm sounding repeatedly on residential block
store security alarm left ringing with no response

How to file a complaint

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

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

Penalties & fines

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

What happens after you file

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

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.

Related guides

Noise complaints

FAQ

Can I file anonymously?

311 requires contact information for follow-up. Your identity is not shared with the violator. SidewalkSnitch requires phone verification for filings but does not auto-submit to 311.

Does SidewalkSnitch submit this to 311 automatically?

This rule category is reference-only in SidewalkSnitch today. File directly at 311.nyc.gov or call 311.

More Noise rules · ← All regulations