As Catmad mentions, to check local ordinances. But the problem I see is, in your situation, apartment noise you mention falls in the purview of the landlord, and most leases do have a 'quiet enjoyment' clause. Think about it, how will the police measure the noise? From the public street? Walking and dropping things, a nocturnal lifestyle while audible to you, is not going to be audible from the street, if it is, then yes you have a valid claim.

