Local Ordinances and What They Mean to You

General Noise Ordinances
As a rule of thumb, any noise that creates an annoyance for your neighbors may be subject to enforcement by the police.  The ordinances are broken down as to the type of noise and time of day.  Generally but not exclusively, 8:00 pm to 8:00 am is the time that a loud stereo, parties, motors, dogs barking, construction and similar types of nuisance complaints are enforced.  Additionally, under some circumstances these ordinances are enforced during the day.

Consideration For Your Community
Again, you are a part of a residential community.  Your neighbors work, raise their families and establish roots in towns that surround St. John's University.  As a member of the community, you should modify your behavior to match the neighborhood in which you are living.

Late Night Noise
Most complaints to the police are generated by late night noise.  It is important for you, your housemates and guests to be mindful of noise coming from your apartment or house, particularly in the evening and early morning hours.  REMEMBER; LATE IS A MATTER OF PERSPECITVE! What is EARLY to you might be LATE to your neighbors.  As you return home from an evening class, a late shift at work, the library, an evening out with friends, or when friends stop by your residence, be considerate of slamming doors, car horns, shouting friends, etc. – NOISE CARRIES! PLEASE BE MINDFUL OF THE TIME!!

General Traffic Ordinances
Overnight parking on local streets may be regulated by ordinances.  Streets where parking is prohibited overnight generally have signs posted noting this restriction.  You should familiarize yourself with all street signs near your residence.  When you are searching for a rental, ask the landlord or realtor where you will be able to park and how many vehicles may park on the property.  When you are unsure about your ability to park on or near your property, we suggest that you contact the city.  Rental properties in residential areas can create problems with regard to parking.  If your property has off street parking we encourage you to use it, when appropriate.  You may need to work out parking schedules with your roommates.