NYC mosques can broadcast azan 82 times per year

New York City has issued new guidance allowing mosques to broadcast azan (call to prayer) 82 times per year.

"Today we are cutting red tape and saying clearly if you are a mosque or house of worship of any kind, you do not have to apply for a permit to amplify your call to Friday prayer. You are free to live your faith in NYC," the city's Mayor Eric Adams said while announcing the new guidance on Tuesday.

The new initiative, launched by the NYPD, clarifies the call to prayer is allowed in New York City. Mosques can broadcast azan all year on Fridays between 12:30pm and 1:30pm, as well as in the evenings during Ramadan. Mosques do not need to obtain a permit and it will not be prohibited despite sound restrictions in city neighborhoods.

/KN/