The sound of lawnmowers, leaf blowers and hedge trimmers is a sure sign of summer in New York. But if your neighbor fires up a mower before sunrise or starts landscaping late at night, they could be violating local noise laws.
Many Rochester-area communities have rules limiting when residents can use lawn care equipment, with some ordinances carrying fines and other penalties for repeat violations.
When can you legally mow your lawn?
Noise regulations vary by municipality, but several Rochester-area communities have specific restrictions on lawn maintenance equipment.
City of Rochester
Residents may use lawnmowers, hedge trimmers, leaf blowers, chainsaws, tillers, mulchers, chippers and similarlawn care equipment between 8 a.m. and sunset.
Town of Irondequoit
Lawnmowers and other equipment that create excessive noise
at the property line may not be used between 10 p.m. and 9 a.m.
Town of Greece
Lawnmowers, hedge trimmers, leaf blowers, chainsaws, tillers, mulchers, chippers and other lawn care devices may be operated between 8 a.m. and sunset.
Town of Brighton
Brighton does not have specific lawn care hours, but the town prohibits the creation of any "unreasonably loud, disturbing and unnecessary noise."
Town of Henrietta
Henrietta's code requires motor-driven equipment, including lawnmowers, to be equipped with a properly installed and maintained muffler. The town does not specify lawn care operating hours in its noise code.
What are the penalties for violating noise ordinances?
Penalties vary by community.
In Rochester, violations can result in fines of:
- First offense: $200
- Second offense: $400
- Third and subsequent offenses: $600
In Irondequoit and Greece, violations may result in fines and, in some cases, up to 15 days in jail.
What should you do if a neighbor is violating local noise rules?
If you believe a neighbor is violating a local noise ordinance, you can contact your local police department, which typically enforces municipal noise regulations.
However, a conversation may be the quickest solution. Consider speaking with your neighbor first and sharing information about the local ordinance before escalating the matter. If the issue continues, residents may also have the option of pursuing remedies through small claims or civil court.
Bottom line
While mowing the lawn is a normal part of summer, many Rochester-area communities restrict when noisy lawn equipment can be used. Before starting yardwork early in the morning or after dark, it's worth checking your local ordinance to avoid complaints — or potential fines.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Are you mowing your lawn at the wrong time?
