Amplified Sound / Noise Control Policy

It is the responsibility of all faculty, students, and staff to moderate amplified sounds and noise, especially during an organized event held on campus. 

The Amplified Sound Policy seeks to ensure that any amplified sound associated with university-approved outdoor events does not interfere with the regular functioning of the university or with the well-being of residential neighbors. 

The City Noise Control Code addresses unreasonable noise, meaning any excessive or unusually loud sound that disturbs the peace, comfort, or repose of a reasonable person. During the planning of an event, potential sound levels, especially where amplified sound is involved, will be reviewed with the sponsors in order to address provisions of the code.

Amplification will not be approved during time periods in which it may disrupt the workday, classes, or other events. Amplification is not approved during reading periods or exam periods.

New York City noise codes prohibit amplification after 10 p.m. University policy prohibits excessive noise amplification during business hours, although exceptions for limited amplification may be made between 12 p.m. and 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. Amplification includes, but is not limited to, any speaker more powerful than a portable radio, professional sound equipment, novice sound equipment, and any single instrument with an amplifier.

Outdoor events that play music must limit the level of unreasonable or disturbing noise that escapes into the streets or is heard in nearby residences by requiring that sounds levels may not exceed 70 decibels per New York City noise code