🔴 Immediate Actions (Today or ASAP)

• Document the Noise Issue: Write down dates, times, duration, and descriptions of the noise disturbance. Note whether it occurs during daytime (7 a.m. to 10 p.m.) or nighttime (10 p.m. to 7 a.m.).
• Record Evidence: If possible, use a smartphone or sound level meter app to record noise levels at your property line. Note that official enforcement requires certified meters, but recordings can support your complaint.
• Identify Source and Location: Determine if the noise is coming from a commercial/industrial source, a neighbor, or other local activity.
• Check Local Ordinances: Visit your municipality’s website or contact the local police or code enforcement office to learn about local noise and nuisance ordinances.
• File a Complaint: Contact your local police department or county health agency to report the noise disturbance. Provide your documentation and evidence.

🟡 Short-Term Steps (This Week)

• Follow Up on Complaint: Ask the enforcement agency about their process and timeline for investigating your complaint.
• Request Noise Measurement: If your municipality has the authority, ask if they will perform an official noise measurement using certified equipment.
• Review Municipal Codes: Obtain a copy of your local noise and nuisance ordinances to understand exact limits, exemptions, and penalties.
• Communicate with the Source (if safe): Consider politely informing the noise source (e.g., neighbor or business) about your complaint and local noise limits. Example email:
  

  Subject: Noise Concern and Local Ordinance Compliance
  
  Dear [Name],
  
  I wanted to let you know that the noise from [specific activity] has been quite loud, especially during [time]. According to our local noise ordinance, limits are [state limits]. I have filed a complaint with local authorities and hope we can resolve this amicably.
  
  Thank you for your understanding.
  
  Sincerely,
  [Your Name]

• Keep All Records: Save copies of complaints, correspondence, and any official notices or responses.

🟢 Strategic Follow-Up (Next 2-4 Weeks or Longer)

• Monitor Enforcement Actions: Check if the local agency issues a Notice of Violation or takes other enforcement steps.
• Consider Legal Advice: If noise continues or enforcement is ineffective, consult a local attorney experienced in environmental or municipal law.
• Explore Mediation: Some municipalities offer mediation services to resolve neighborhood disputes—check if this is available.
• File Formal Complaints: If local enforcement fails, you may file a complaint with the NJ Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) or consider civil action.
• Stay Informed: Keep updated on any changes to local noise ordinances or state regulations.

Your Legal Rights

• Noise Limits: Under the New Jersey Noise Control Act, commercial and industrial noise must not exceed 65 decibels during daytime and 50 decibels at night, measured at your property line.
• Local Ordinances: Your municipality must have noise and nuisance regulations at least as strict as state law, enforced by local police or code officers.
• Enforcement and Penalties: Violators can face fines up to $3,000 per day per offense under state law, or lesser penalties under local codes.
• Right to Complain: You have the right to file noise complaints with local authorities and request enforcement.
• Due Process: Violators usually receive a Notice of Violation allowing time to comply before penalties.
• Exemptions: Noise from aircraft, vehicles on public roads, and certain agricultural activities are generally exempt.

Where to Get Help

• Local Police Department or Code Enforcement: Primary contact for noise complaints and enforcement.
• County Health Agency: May enforce noise regulations if certified.
• Municipal Clerk or Environmental Officer: Can provide local ordinance information.
• New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP): For state-level complaints or questions: www.nj.gov/dep or call (609) 292-2885.
• Legal Aid Organizations: For free or low-cost legal advice, search for local legal aid in your county.
• Mediation Services: Check if your municipality offers community mediation for noise disputes.

Documents to Keep: Noise logs, recordings, copies of complaints, correspondence, official notices.

Emergency Resources: If noise is part of a threatening or dangerous situation, call 911 immediately.