NYC’s hidden noise cameras: a wake-up call for public health

by Mary Tatigian, Chair, Quiet Streets, Co-Chair, Quiet American Skies, Founder, Quiet Florida

Photo credit: Yuting Gao

In a bold move to combat rising urban noise, New York City has quietly deployed a dozen noise cameras across its boroughs. These devices, designed to detect and penalize vehicles exceeding 85 decibels — roughly the volume of a lawn mower — have caused the issuance of over 2,000 summonses, racking up $1.7 million in fines to date.

The initiative, launched under the Stop Spreading the Noise Act, reflects growing concern over the health consequences of unchecked urban soundscapes. According to New York City’s Department of Environmental Protection, excessive vehicle noise isn’t just disruptive — it’s harmful, contributing to sleep deprivation, hearing loss and elevated stress levels. These effects are especially pronounced in vulnerable populations, including children, veterans and individuals with sensory sensitivities.

City Council member Lincoln Restler, who helped fund one of the cameras in Brooklyn, noted that constituents aren’t complaining about the surveillance.

“The only complaint I’ve gotten is that they want more [cameras] on their block,” he said.

That’s no surprise, given that noise complaints have more than doubled citywide over the past decade, with some neighborhoods seeing a 112% increase.

Noise pollution rarely travels alone. The same modified mufflers and revving engines that trigger these fines also emit elevated levels of air pollutants, including particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide, which are linked to respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular disease and cognitive decline. In high-traffic corridors like Tillary Street, where one camera alone caused 375 summonses to be issued last year, residents face a double burden: toxic air and relentless noise. 

This program isn’t just about fines, it’s about reclaiming livability. By enforcing sound thresholds and spotlighting the health risks of urban pollution, New York City is setting a precedent for cities nationwide. It’s a call to action for policymakers, public health advocates and community leaders to treat noise and air pollution as intertwined threats to well-being.

We hope other cities and towns follow New York City’s example and use noise cameras to enforce vehicle noise regulations. A quieter world will be a better and healthier world for all.