Florida Nightclub Meets Noise Complaints with Louder Music (Apr. 19, 2000). According to the St. Petersburg Times, the owners of Plant Bubba in Hernando County, vow to crank up the music more nights during the week when county commissioners strengthen existing noise ordinances.
Rhode Island Town's New Ordinance is Tougher but Will it Work? (Apr. 19, 2000). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reported that the Town Council in Bristol asked residents to identify areas in their neighborhoods and throughout the town that are noise problems.
UK City Officials Promote Tourism and Nightlife but Residents Say No (Apr. 17, 2000). The Journal reported that residents and restaurant/pub owners have two different views of Newcastle, England. Residents want more peace and quiet but the business community says the positive economic impact the nightlife brings is critical to the town's finances.
Johnston, Rhode Island Nightclub Loses License for Sixty Days for Noise Ordinance Violation (Apr. 14, 2000). The Providence Journal-Bulletin in Rhode Island reports that a nightclub, Club Starzz, has hat its license suspended for 60 days for violating the noise ordinance in the town of Johnston. If convicted of the violation in court, the club could also be required to pay a fine of $50. The club's lawyers are also seeking to have another town ordinance of which the club has been found in violation, governing after-hours operations, overturned because of unconstitutionality.
By Court Order: Noise Ordinance Violators Must Listen to Country Music (Apr. 14, 2000). AP Online reports that cities are using innovative ways of punishing noise violators. Much of the article discusses how some college students in Connecticut were forced to attend an opera performance as punishment for breaking various campus rules. A small portion of the article deals with unique punishment for noise ordinance violations.
Residents in Wilmington, North Carolina Bothered by Loud Music from Bars; Noise Ordinance to be Amended (Apr. 13, 2000). The Morning Star in Wilmington, North Carolina reports that a popular nightclub offering outdoor music reopened two weeks ago in a new location that is bothering residents in downtown Wilmington. The bar, called the Icehouse, had previously been located in a warehouse district of the city, but has reopened in a downtown area near condominiums. The Icehouse had violated the city noise ordinance in the past at its old location.
Johnston, Rhode Island Nightclub's License Suspended for Violation of Town Ordinances (Apr. 13, 2000). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that a nightclub in Johnston, Rhode Island has had its business license suspended for sixty days for violating the town's noise ordinance and a club operating hours ordinance. Club Starzz's owners plan to appeal the Town Council's decision in court.
Hernando County, Florida Residents Want Noise Ordinance Tightened to Clamp Down on Undesirable Nightclub (Apr. 12, 2000). The Hernando Times in Florida reports that Hernando County residents have lodged many complaints about Planet Bubba, a nightclub that allegedly makes too much noise, and is a location used for drug dealing and nude dancing. Some residents recently filed petitions with the Hernando County Government Center enumerating their complaints. In addition, they attended a recent County Commission meeting to voice their concerns in person. New ordinances will be drafted by the County Attorney's office as a result.
Edinburgh, Scotland Residents Oppose Summer Fair in Local Park (Apr. 11, 2000). The Evening News in Edinburgh, Scotland reports that residents in an Edinburgh, Scotland neighborhood near a park are protesting a fair that is slated to take place there in May. In previous years, the fair, they say, has produced too much noise, litter, vandalism, and other crimes. They have asked the City Council to refuse to give the promoters a license to hold the fair this year.
Resident in Droitwich, England Fined for Violating Residential Noise Abatement Notice (Apr. 11, 2000). The Birmingham Evening Mail in England reports that Darryl Knight of Droitwich, Worcestershire, England was found guilty of violating a noise abatement notice that had been issued to him by Wychavon District Council's environment protection department. He was fined pounds 300 for causing a noise nuisance in his neighborhood after playing music and operating his TV at excessively high noise levels.
Augusta, Maine Bar Granted Three-Month Permit to Offer Live Music (Apr. 11, 2000). The Kennebec Journal reports that an Augusta, Maine bar will be able to offer live music three nights per week as a result of a recent City Council vote that granted the business a special amusement permit. Complaints from residents about loud music and patrons prompted city meetings to discuss the issue.
Common Household Noise Dangers (Apr. 9, 2000). The Sunday Mercury in Birmingham, England reports that our hearing can be damaged by exposure to all types of seemingly harmless things in the home and in our everyday lives. Loud music is usually the first offender that comes to mind, but there are many others as well.
Proposed Noise Bylaw in Central Elgin County, England Difficult to Draft Because Some Residents Tolerate More Noise Than Others (Apr. 9, 2000). The London Free Press in England reports that people have varying degrees of tolerance for noise, based partly on where they live, and also on their particular personalities. This makes noise issues difficult to regulate and enforce.
Bar in New Plymouth, England Focus of Noise Complaints (Apr. 8, 2000). The Daily News in New Plymouth, New Zealand reports that a bar owner in New Plymouth is upset about a noise abatement notice that he received from the New Plymouth District Council for having violated the 55-decibel noise limit. The owner of the Salvation Bar on Powderham Street, Cameron McKay, believes that a 55-decibel limit is too low, and he is worried about being able to continue his business.
Bar/Restaurant in Neptune Beach, Florida Offers Live Music That Keeps Neighbors Awake at Night (Apr. 8, 2000). The Florida Times-Union reports that a bar/restaurant in Neptune Beach called Hurrican Hatties is bothering residents with loud outdoor music until late in the night.
Local Café Works with Vero Beach, Florida Officials to Find Solution to Noise Problem (Apr. 7, 2000). The Press Journal in Vero Beach, Florida reports that city police, attorneys, and planners are meeting this week with Hugh Raiten, owner of the Riverside Café, a bar with live music that has been the focus of noise complaints since it first opened in 1993.
Bar in Ashby, England May Not Be Allowed to Continue Operating as a Nightclub Because of Excessive Noise (Apr. 6, 2000). The Leicester Mercury in England reports that an entertainment locale in Ashby, England called "Desires" has been operating illegally as a nightclub. However, until the North West Leicestershire District Council makes a decision about its license, the establishment can stay open until 2 AM on weekend nights. The noise from the club has been extremely bothersome to one of its neighbors, who is elderly.
Nightclub in Coventry, England Fined For Loud Music (Apr. 6, 2000). The Coventry Evening Telegraph in Coventry, England reports that a nightclub that had been accused of producing too much noise was fined pounds 3,000.
Police in Port St. Lucie, Florida Crack Down on Loud Car Stereos (Apr. 6, 2000). The Palm Beach Post reports that police in Port St. Lucie, Florida recently engaged in "Operation Silent Night," an undercover plan to ticket drivers who play their car radios and stereos too loud. They gave out traffic tickets to eighteen drivers at $50 per ticket. They also issued one misdemeanor noise violation with a fine of $100 and a notice for the driver to appear in court.
St.Louis, Missouri Ball Park Will Try to Contain Noise with New Sound System (Apr. 5, 2000). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that the city of St. Louis, Missouri is taking steps to ensure that noise from the T.R. Hughes Ballpark will be contained when the River City Rascals begin playing ball there this season.
State of Oklahoma on its Way to Final Passage of Boom Car Law (Apr. 5, 2000). The Daily Oklahoman reports that the Oklahoma House of Representatives recently passed an anti-car stereo noise bill. Final language needs to be drafted on the bill, however, and it may not pass during this year's legislative session. The Senate passed the bill in March by a vote of 26-17.
Vero Beach, Florida Residents Want Noise Ordinance Amended Because of Loud Music From Café (Apr. 2, 2000). The Press Journal in Vero Beach, Florida reports that residents Jim and Kathleen Norconk have had it with the loud music from the local Riverside Café. They have hired attorney James A. Taylor to help them with a petition that they hope will encourage the City Council to amend its noise ordinance. Other residents in the communities of Vero Isles, Vista Harbor, and McKee Point are supportive of the Norconks' efforts.
City of Largo, Florida in Process of Amending Noise Ordinance (Apr. 2, 2000). The St. Petersburg Times reports on a noise ordinance in Largo, Florida that is in the process of being amended because the current one is too vague.
Noise Pollution Expert Les Blomberg Comments on Hearing Loss (Apr. 1, 2000). Prevention Magazine reports on how hearing loss can occur, and ways in which people can avoid hearing loss. Twenty-eight million Americans suffer from some type of hearing loss.
Technical Solutions to Acoustic Needs for Theater and Concert Hall Spaces (Apr. 1, 2000). Entertainment Design published an interview about theater and concert hall acoustics with expert Rick Talaske of the Talaske Group, Inc. (Tgi) in Oak Park, Illinois. David Napoleon of Entertainment Design was the interviewer.
Fort Lauderdale, Florida Nightclub Considers Attracting Different Clientele in Order to Reduce Club Noise (Mar. 31, 2000). The Sun-Sentinel in Fort Lauderdale, Florida reports that the Roxy nightclub has been the target of noise complaints by area residents. Club owner Stuart Konecky has been considering changing the type of music that he offers at the club so that the current club crowd, mostly African-Americans, will go elsewhere. He claims the move is not racially motivated.
Opponents of Outdoor Amphitheater in Vancouver, Washington File Lawsuit Against County and Developer (Mar. 30, 2000). The Columbian in Vancouver, Washington reports that two citizen organizations have sued Clark County, Washington, and Q Prime, a developer that wants to build an 18,000-seat, 800,000-square foot amphitheater in Clark County. The suit alleges that the amphitheater would cause noise pollution, harm the environment, and lessen the quality of life for area residents. This is the third time that opponents have filed a lawsuit trying to stop the project.
Muslims in Oslo, Norway Allowed to Use Loudspeaker to Broadcast Calls to Prayer (Mar. 29, 2000). The Associated Press Worldstream reports that a neighborhood council in Oslo, Norway has granted permission to the World Islamic Mission to broadcast calls to prayer on outdoor loudspeakers every Friday.
Noise Dispute in Canada Results in Controversial Police Action (Mar. 27, 2000). The Vancouver Sun reported on a noise dispute that resulted in a police arrest in which the subject's arm was broken. The Supreme Court in British Columbia ruled that the police officer is not liable for damages.
Live Music Outdoors Divides St. Petersburg Florida Neighborhood Residents (Mar. 26, 2000). An article in the Neighborhood section of the St. Petersburg Times addressed the loud, live music of a new neighborhood outdoor club and its impact on residents of a nearby senior citizen apartment complex. Opinion is divided over the loud live music.
UK Officials Change Noise Rules With Support from Neighbors (Mar. 25, 2000). The London Free Press printed an op-ed challenging a recent column that criticized city officials for changing noise rules at outdoor concerts because of complaints.
Bullhead, Arizona City Council Passes Noise Ordinance (Mar. 23, 2000). An article from the Associated Press reported that the Bullhead City Council recently passed a new noise ordinance that restricts people from playing loud radios, musical instruments, television sets or stereos in "a reckless manner." Emergency vehicles are responding to a call are exempt.
Hume, Maryland Winery Must Decide Whether To Attract Business or Be a Better Neighbor (Mar. 23, 2000). The Washington Post reported on a public hearing regarding the Oasis Winery, in Hume and its increased noise level.
Indiana Diner Reduces Parties and Loud Music in Response to Neighbors' Complaints (Mar. 22, 2000). The Des Moines Register reported that local residents want to impose a decrease in the number of motorcycle and classic car events at a local diner because of the noise activity.
New Noise in Papillion City, Nebraska Will Silence Boom Cars and Other Loud Noise Makers (Mar. 22, 2000). The Omaha World-Herald reported that to ensure the peace and tranquility of the town, the Papillion City Council will impose a new noise ordinance that will crack down on loud noises, boom cars in particular.
Oklahoma City Councilwoman's Fight Against Noise Said to Interfere with Development (Mar. 22, 2000). According to the Daily Oklahoman, an Oklahoma City councilwoman's fight against noise prompted other council members to delay any change in the city's noise ordinance because they are worried that inner-city development may suffer because of it.
Point Pleasant, New Jersey Beach Bar May Lose Mercantile License for Violation of Borough Noise Ordinances and May Also be Shut Down for Fifteen Days For Illegally Conducting Sports Pool Gambling. (Mar. 20, 2000). The Asbury Park Press reports that J.P. Bailey's, a Point Pleasant Beach bar and restaurant, has violated the borough noise ordinance dozens of times and has allowed sports pool gambling to take place. Two people have been arrested for the sports pool gambling.
Rugby Superstar Jonah Lomu of New Zealand Plans to Attempt to Break World Car Audio Sound Pressure Record of 176 Decibels (Mar. 20, 2000). The Dominion (Wellington) reports that rugby star Jonah Lomu attended the Car Audio New Zealand sound-off central regional finals. He plans to attempt to break the world record in six months. The sound-off is a competition to create the loudest sound-pressure level using a car stereo.
Proposed Amendment to Oklahoma City Ordinance, Designed to Reduce Nightclub Noise, Causes Concern Among Business Owners and Some Residents (Mar. 19, 2000). The Sunday Oklahoman reports that Oklahoma City Councilwoman Amy Brooks has drafted a proposed amendment to a city ordinance as a result of complaints from many of her Ward 2 constituents about late-night bar, nightclub, and restaurant noise in the Crown Heights neighborhood. Some other residents, and many business owners and concert promoters, strongly oppose the measure.
Musician Fined For Playing Loud Drums Late at Night (Mar. 17, 2000). The Nottingham Evening Post in Nottingham, England reports that the Broxtowe, England Borough Council has fined Daniel Bachelard GBP 100 after receiving complaints from neighbors about loud music late at night.
Norman, Oklahoma City Council Strengthens Noise Ordinance (Mar. 17, 2000). The Daily Oklahoman reports that the Norman City Council has agreed to change the city noise ordinance so that it will be enforceable twenty-four hours a day.
Atlanta Plans Beefed-up Public Safety and Noise Ordinance Enforcement Presence in Buckhead District for St. Patrick's Day Weekend Celebrations (Mar. 16, 2000). The Atlanta Journal and Constitution reports that Atlanta's Buckhead bar district is planning on huge crowds during the upcoming St. Patrick's Day weekend, and the city is preparing ahead of time to make sure that the area is well patrolled for safety and crowd control, and to make sure that the city noise ordinance is enforced.
Noise From Vehicle Sound Systems Annoys Business Owners (Mar. 15, 2000). The Manawatu Standard reports that police in Palmerston North, New Zealand, do not believe that they should be dealing with complaints about loud music coming from vehicles as they drive through the city. They would rather see the city council deal with the problem.
Patrons Object to Loud Live Music in Restaurants (Mar. 15, 2000). The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette published a column by staff writer Kelly D. Burgess who complains about the loud music in a local pub. The column is reprinted here in its entirety:
Noise From Café's Live Music Disturbs Downtown Dunedin, Florida Residents (Mar. 14, 2000). The North Pinellas Times reports that residents who have moved to downtown Dunedin, Florida as part of the city's revitalization plan are now annoyed by live music late at night at a local cafe.
Reader Bothered By Noise From All-Night Discos (Mar. 14, 2000). The New Straits Times published a letter to the editor from a reader who has been bothered by the noise from all-night discos. The letter is reprinted below in its entirety:
Residents in Bristol, England Annoyed by Noise from Local Pub (Mar. 13, 2000). The Bristol Evening Post in England reports that residents who live near to the George Pub in Chipping Sodbury are disturbed by the noise from the pub. The South Gloucestershire Council has investigated the complaints.
Florida Editorial Says Noise is Noise According to Who Makes It (Feb. 19, 2000). A tongue-in-cheek editorial in the Orlando Sentinel Tribune posed the question "when is noise really noise?"
Indian Government to Enforce New Noise Rules Under Environment Protection Act (Feb. 18, 2000). According to an article from the M2 Presswire, the Ministry of Environment and Forests is getting tough on noise pollution, a significant problem in India's cities and urban areas. The article said that the Noise Pollution Rules 2000 aim to regulate and reduce noise at the source.
Noise From Neighbors Disrupts Serenity in the Home; Police Say Problems Can Often Be Fixed By Going Through Proper Channels (Feb. 18, 2000). The Portland (Maine) Press Herald printed an article in the Real Estate section about obnoxious noisy neighbors.
Solutions to Reducing Effects of Neighbor's Loud Stereo (Feb. 17, 2000). The Toronto Star reports that a reader of Ian G. Masters "Sight 'n' Sound" column wrote about a problem he has with his neighbor's noisy stereo.
Hinckley Borough Council Enforces Neighborhood Noise Abatement Legislation (Feb. 16, 2000). The Leicester Mercury in England reports that a Hinckley resident had his stereo system confiscated and was forced to pay fines and legal fees after he refused to turn down the volume on his stereo system and was reported to the authorities by annoyed neighbors.
UK Bar Renovations and Night Curfews May Reduce Noise Levels (Feb. 16, 2000). According to the Grimbsby Evening Telegraph, renovations to a local bar has the support of district councilors because of noise reduction plans bar owners will implement. Council members agree the number one priority is soundproofing the building well.
Manawatu, New Zealand District Council to Begin Imposing Fines For Excessive Residential Noise (Feb. 15, 2000). The Evening Standard of Manawatu, New Zealand reports that the Manawatu District Council will begin fining people in Feilding and elsewhere in the District who refuse to comply with noise abatement notices.
Illinois Residents Stall Plans For Road Course (Feb. 6, 2000). The Chicago Tribune reported on Sugar Grove residents who attended a planning commission meeting to oppose plans for a country club with a road course. While they were unable to stop the plans, residents were successful in stalling them.
UK Residents Oppose New Nightclub Because of Noise and Rowdiness (Feb. 5, 2000). The Newcastle Chronicle and Journal reported that residents in the English town complained to the Newcastle City council about plans for a new nightclub near their homes. They don't want to listen to noise or disturbances and promise to fight the plan.
Illinois City Council to Limit Construction Hours and Outdoor Speaker Decibel Levels (Feb. 3, 2000). According to the Chicago Tribune, the Naperville City Council submitted two changes regarding noise to the Plan Commission. One change would limit work hours for construction crews and the other would limit the decibel levels on outdoor speakers at businesses.
UK Tavern Owners Asked to Reduce Noise (Feb. 3, 2000). According to The Press, local officials from Wanaka urged tavern and motel owners to resolve their conflict over noise from loud music and bar customers.
London's Theater District Too Noisy for Soho Residents (Feb. 2, 2000). An article from the Press Association Newsfile reported that Soho residents have taken political action against Westminster City Council's decision to allow another new night café in London's theater. Resident's claim that there are just too many night cafes, loud music and entertainment in the West End, London's theater and entertainment center, and that they interfere with their sleep.
Noisy Neighbors Turn Down the Volume Before UK Environmental Officer Can Act (Feb. 1, 2000). According to the Leicester Mercury, an attempt by the local environmental health officer to act on noise complaints because the disruptive neighbors turn down the volume of their stereo before he arrives.
UK Town Council Grants Entertainment License After Noise Reduction (Feb. 1, 2000). The Herald Express reported that the public entertainment licenses for two inns have been granted only after the owners squelched the noise.
Exeter, U.K. Recording Studio Owner Threatened With Eviction Because of Noise Complaints, Although Noise Officials Say the Noise Is Legally Acceptable (Jan. 31, 2000). The Express and Echo reports that the owner of a recording studio in Exeter, U.K. is being threatened with eviction because of noise complaints. Local noise officials visited the studio and said that the noise was in legal limits, but the landlord still insists on eviction.
Mayfield, Scotland Senior Citizen Sleeps In Her Car to Escape Neighbors Music; Neighbor Counters that Senior's Saint Bernard Snores (Jan. 30, 2000). The Sunday Mail reports that an elderly woman in Mayfield, Midlothian, Scotland has taken to sleeping in her car because of music that comes through her walls from her neighbors. Her neighbor says the music is not too loud, and counters that he loses sleep from her snoring, which she blames on her dog.
Orange County, California Fair Agrees Not to Extract Legal Fees from Two Neighbors Who Opposed Them In a Losing Lawsuit Over Noise from a Fairgrounds Amphitheater (Jan. 30, 2000). The Los Angeles Times reports that the Orange County, California Fair has agreed not to hold two neighbors to their 'responsibility' to pay $52,000 in legal fees. The two neighbors had joined the losing side of a lawsuit that claimed an amphitheater was sold to the fair when it was known to be unusable due to noise restrictions. When the company who sold the theater settled and the neighbors did not, the neighbors were shouldered with the legal fees. If they don't appeal the ruling, the legal fees will now be waived.
Pembroke Pines, Florida Considers Stricter Noise Ordinance (Jan. 30, 2000). The Sun-Sentinel reports that the Mayor of Pembroke Pines, Florida has asked city commissioners to consider toughening the existing noise ordinance. Noise that exceeded new decibel limits, or was loud enough "to disturb the peace, quiet and comfort of the neighborhood, regardless of the time of day," would be punishable by up to $500 fine or 60 days in jail.
Addison, Illinois Toughens Noise Ordinance to Address Loud Car Stereos (Jan. 28, 2000). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that Addison, Illinois has changed its noise ordinance to prohibit stereos systems or mufflers from being heard 75 feet away from a vehicle.
Street Preacher Says Beaufort, South Carolina Noise Law that Sets Different Decibel Limits for Amplified and Unamplified Noise is Discriminatory to Street Preachers (Jan. 27, 2000). The Post and Courier reports that a Beaufort, South Carolina preacher has threatened to sue the city for setting decibel limits for unamplified noise lower than those for amplified noise: a rule that discriminates against street preaching.
Kenyan Disco Noise Leads to Violence (Jan. 16, 2000). According to an article from the Agence France Presse, the husband of Princess Caroline of Monaco, and some of his friends beat the owner of disco and hotel, who is now in intensive care because of loud music.
Americans Urged To Increase Awareness of Hearing Hazards, Especially for Children (Jan. 14, 2000). An article from PR Newswire reported health information from The House Ear Institute, saying that if adults and children are in an environment where they must raise their voices to be heard, they are in potentially hazardous-hearing area and hearing protection is recommended.
Noise Levels in US Homes Increasing (Jan. 14, 2000). An article from the PR Newswire reported that modern technology and decreasing lot sizes mean more noise for American homeowners, and that means more stress and less sleep.
Maine Town Council Reforms (Jan. 13, 2000). The Bangor Daily News reported that Orno Town Council members warned a local nightclub owner to reduce the noise level or risk losing his entertainment license.
Florida County to Measure Music Levels at Bars (Jan. 13, 2000). According to the Sarasota Herald-Tribune, Sarasota County commissioners gave their approval to sheriff's deputies to use sound-level meters to determine noise violations when residents complain about loud music at bars.
Noise from California Night Club Creates Neighborhood Tension (Jan. 13, 2000). The Sacramento Bee reported that Roseville residents can't enjoy their back yards, rest, read or sleep because of a neighborhood billiard business that plays live music, but the city council says the club doesn't violate the local noise ordinance.
Maine Town Rejects Noise Abatement Amendment for Businesses With Liquor Licenses (Jan. 11, 2000). The Kennebec Journal reported on the city council's rejection of a proposed amendment to a local ordinance that, if passed, would have required businesses with liquor licenses to conform to the same noise standards that city residents must observe.
Rhode Island Club Loses Renewal of Permit (Jan. 11, 2000). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reported on the city council's rejection of a permit renewal for the Club Confetti because of noise, traffic and unruly customers. The vote was four to one.
Luxurious California Hotel in Dispute With Trendy Restaurant Over Noise (Jan. 11, 2000). The Los Angeles Times reported on the permanent closing of Twin Palms restaurant, which has been involved in a noise dispute with a local hotel.
Stonehaven, U.K. Bar Is Granted Later Operating Hours, Despite Resident's Objections (Jan. 6, 2000). The Aberdeen Press and Journal reports that the Aberdeenshire Council granted permission for later operating hours at a Stonehaven bar. A neighbor had said the hours would cause noise problems, but police officials said there had never been any problems.
Vogeltown, New Zealand Couple Says Millennium Concert Was Too Loud and Lasted Too Long (Jan. 5, 2000). The Daily News reports that a couple living in Vogeltown, New Zealand thought the Millennium concert on New Years' Day night was too loud and went too long. Local officials thought that most people wouldn't mind the once-in-a-millennium exception.
Boom Boxes in Suffolk County New York Expected To Abide by Noise Limits (Dec. 12, 1999). According to the New York Times, the Suffolk County Legislature approved noise limits for boom boxes and other noise sources on county roads or in county-owned beaches and parks. One county official said that the legislation came about because existing loud noises have an adverse affect on the quality of life for Suffolk residents.
Taco Bell in North Providence, Rhode Island Agrees to Try Closing Earlier for One Month to Address Neighbors' Noise Complaints (Dec. 8, 1999). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that a Taco Bell in North Providence, Rhode Island has agreed to try closing one hour earlier for one month to address noise complaints from neighbors. During the new trial period, suggested by the town council and adopted by the restaurant, the restaurant may or may not dispense with a security guard they previously hired to keep the noise down.
Tavares, Florida Residents Still Upset Over Noise Three Months After Noise Ordinance Was Instituted (Dec. 8, 1999). The Orlando Sentinel reports that residents in Tavares, Florida are still upset at the noise coming from live music at a restaurant, even after a noise ordinance was implemented three months ago.
After One Noise Warning, Birmingham, U.K. Police Seize Stereo and CDs From 17-Year-Old Noise Offender (Dec. 3, 1999). The Birmingham Evening Mail reports that after giving a warning to a 17-year-old noise offender back in July, police seized stereo equipment and CDs from the noise-offenders house after continued complaints.
Rodeo in Sebastian, Florida Receives Reprimand; Rodeo Officials Claim Other Loud Events Are Unfairly Ignored (Dec. 3, 1999). The Sebastian Sun reports that the Sebastian, Florida police visited a recent rodeo to ask that the music be turned down. Rodeo officials say that other festivals aren't harassed because of noise, but police said amplified bass and volume made the rodeo louder than other festivals. The city is considering reinstituting a policy of issuing permits that designate how long and loud an event can be.
Owensboro, Kentucky Begins Using New Noise Ordinance Against Loud Car Stereos (Dec. 2, 1999). The Courier-Journal reports that Owensboro, Kentucky police have used the new local noise ordinance against 8 individuals with loud car stereos.
Noise Pollution -- Including Unwanted Muzak -- Is Growing in the U.K. (Dec. 1, 1999). The Guardian reports that noise pollution seems to be growing in the United Kingdom, in forms including unwanted muzak. Noise complaints have increased by over 25 times from 1971 to 1996. Noise may intensify many health problems. Some politicians want to ban piped-in music in public places where people can't escape the noise, such as in hospitals.
Several Pubs in Bath, U.K. Apply For Live Music License; Letters of Opposition and Support Have Been Received By the Local Council (Dec. 1, 1999). The Bath Chronicle reports that several pubs in Bath, U.K. have applied for a live music license, amid differing neighbors' opinions.
Health Report from Scotland Notes 80 Percent of "Youngsters" Already Show First Signs of Hearing Loss (Nov. 29, 1999). The Daily Mail reports that a new study, released from the Institute of Hearing Research in Scotland, has noted that the popularity of the personal stereo has increased the number of youths who will have hearing problems early. The researchers are advocating for decibel limits for personal stereos and clubs in Britain.
Residents and Environmental Health Officer Worry that Granting a Late-Night Entertainment Licence to a Yeovil, U.K. Bar Would Cause Noise Problems (Nov. 29, 1999). The Western Daily Press reports that a neighbor of a Yeovil, U.K. bar worries that a late-night entertainment licence -- which the establishment has applied for -- would worsen noise for her and other residents. The local environmental health officer agrees.
Sarcastic Column Says Don't Punish Motorists with Excessively Loud Car Stereos with Loud Classical Music -- As One Judge Has Done -- Make Them Listen to Crying Babies (Nov. 28, 1999). The Ledger prints a sarcastic column that says motorists with loud car stereos should not listen to blaring classical music -- as one local judge has designated -- but to tapes of crying babies.
Nightclub in Nelson, New Zealand Cited for Loud, Repetitive Bass; Club Says It's Being Singled Out (Nov. 27, 1999). The Nelson Mail reports that the Artery nightclub in Nelson, New Zealand has been served with a noise abatement notice after neighbors complained about a loud, repetitive bass thumping. The club believes it is being picked on, but the local environmental officer says that he is simply applying the local noise limits -- which is 50 decibels at the property line for bass -- to the club's noise.
Research Suggests that a Sauna's Mild Heat Shock May Activate Genes that Protect Against Hearing Loss (Nov. 27, 1999). The New Scientist reports that a study at Boston's Harvard Medical School suggests that a sauna -- which essentially subjects the body to mild heat shock -- may prepare the ears to better handle excessive noise. Heat-shock proteins normally serve to protect proteins from unfolding and to re-fold damaged ones; once activated by the sauna, these proteins may be protecting proteins that could normally be damaged by noise.
Illinois General Assembly's Noise Law Struck Down Because It Bans Music But Not Advertisements From Being Heard At 75 Feet (Nov. 26, 1999). The Chicago Tribune prints an editorial which explains that a noise law, passed by the Illinois General Assembly in 1990, has been overturned because it played favorites with forms of expression by exempting advertising noise.
Letter to the Editor from a Tujunga, California Resident Says Noise Is Not Specially Protected Because It Comes From a Religious Service (Nov. 25, 1999). The Daily News of Los Angeles prints several letters to the editor, one of which has to do with noise. The Tujunga, California resident says that noise is irritating and should be treated the same, even if it is from a religious organization.
Illinois Municipalities with Ordinances that Exempt Ice Cream Truck Music From Noise Laws May Face Constitutionality Issues, Now that the State Has Thrown Out a Law that Does the Same (Nov. 24, 1999). The Copley News Service reports that since the Illinois State Supreme Court has thrown out an unconstitutional state law that exempted ice cream trucks and other advertisers from vehicle noise laws, many municipal noise ordinances in Illinois may have to be changed as well. State legislators originally wanted to protect ice cream trucks which were just "playing a jingle", but the court and anti-noise activists say "noise abatement is noise abatement."
Providence, Rhode Island Hip-Hop Music Club Has Liquor License Threatened, Due to Problems with Parking, Noise, and Violence (Nov. 24, 1999). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that a hip-hop music club operating in Providence, Rhode Island is having its liquor license threatened after continued noise, violence, and parking problems continue to draw complaints. A city councilman, together with a citizens association and other residents, is asking that the club's license not be renewed. The owner says that the club is being blamed for problems it hasn't caused, but has said that she may consider a change of format from hip-hop to top-40 to draw a quieter clientele.
Resident of China Says District Candidates Should Quiet their Amplified Campaign Rhetoric (Nov. 24, 1999). The South China Morning Post prints a letter to the editor from a resident of Tuen Mun, China who says that district council candidates should not be allowed to use amplifiers to blare their campaign messages.
Sarasota County, Florida Decides to Forego Noise Ordinance Change In Favor of Improving Enforcement (Nov. 24, 1999). The Sarasota Herald-Tribune reports that Florida's Sarasota County commission decided to table proposed amendments to the noise ordinance. Noise is currently limited to 55 or 65 decibels, depending on the area.
Springfield, Illinois Plans to Strengthen Noise Law, Allowing Cars with Loud Stereos to Be Impounded (Nov. 24, 1999). The Copley News Service reports that Springfield, Illinois is planning to strengthen their noise ordinance by allowing police to impound cars with stereos playing at an excessively loud volume. The ordinance, which is borrowing from similar ordinances in nearby communities Rock Island and Kankakee, should be drafted within three months.
Derby, U.K. Resident Fined 500 Pounds for Having TV Too Loud (Nov. 23, 1999). The Derby Evening Telegraph reports that a man in Derby, U.K., who played his TV so loud that neighbors could mute the same program on their own set and still follow the program, was fined 500 pounds for failing to heed a noise abatement notice.
Swansea, Wales Club Is Denied a 4 A.M. Weekend Extension By the Local Council (Nov. 22, 1999). The South Wales Evening Post reports that the local council has rejected an application from a Swansea, Wales club for a two-hour extension of their operating hours. Police feared the time would cause a sudden exodus that would draw noise complaints. Club owners said that noise issues could be dealt with, and said the exodus would not be sudden.
Columnist Advises Plymouth, U.K. Resident Who Says Neighbors Make Too Much Noise to Keep Diary for Local Council (Nov. 20, 1999). The Evening Herald prints a question about neighbors who create noise. The columnists suggests that the resident keep a month-long diary of the noisy incidents. Then, send the diary to the local council asking what can be done. Also, the Environmental Health Department may be able to investigate the noise.
Restaurant Owners in Ybor City, Florida Upset at City's New Ordinance Forbidding Excessive Noise from Outside Entertainment (Nov. 20, 1999). The Tampa Tribune reports that against protests from local restaurant owners, Ybor City, Florida has passed an ordinance to forbid excessive noise in several districts.
Entertainment License Was Denied to Torquay, U.K. Pub After the Venue Failed to Lower Noise Outputs In the Eight Months Since Its First Warning (Nov. 19, 1999). The Herald Express reports that a pub in Torquay, U.K. was denied the renewal of its entertainment license because it has not lowered its noise output since it was first warned in March. Pub operators said they had done all that needed to be done, but noise officials disagreed.
Gloucester Pub Owner Promises to Cooperate with Environmental Health Officers Who Want to Test Noise from the Premises After Complaints (Nov. 18, 1999). The Gloucester Citizen reports that the owner of a Gloucester pub which received numerous noise complaints recently has said he will cooperate with environmental health officers who want to test the venue.
Bar in Werrington, U.K. Granted License to Host Musical Events Up Until 11:30 P.M. on Weekends, Despite Residents' Noise Concerns (Nov. 17, 1999). The Sentinel reports that a license to host musical events until 11:30 p.m. Thursday through Sunday was granted to a bar in Werrington, U.K. despite residents' concerns about potential noise.
Burton, U.K. Man Fined for Loud Music and Voices In His Home (Nov. 17, 1999). The Derby Evening Telegraph reports that a Burton, U.K. man was fined 2,596 pounds for loud music and voices that came from his home.
Santa Fe, New Mexico Noise Ordinance Soon to Be Passed In an Attempt to Quiet Boom Boxes and Car Stereos (Nov. 17, 1999). The Santa Fe New Mexica reports that Santa Fe, New Mexico is close to passing a proposed ordinance which would fine operators of loud stereos as much as $500 if they can be heard from 25 feet away. Car-stereo clubs say that their members will be restricted more than necessary, and even city officials from Albuquerque says that 25 feet will mean that even reasonable music volumes will be subject to fines.
Urabandale Bars Near Residences Can No Longer Host Live Bands, Says Recently Enforced Zoning Law (Nov. 16, 1999). The Des Moines Register reports that at least three bars near residences in Urbandale, Iowa have lost their ability to legally host live entertainment after residents complained. Bars in "commercial neighborhood" zoning can't have live entertainment.
Legislator's Half-Serious Proposition to Tear Down Hong Kong Stadium -- Which Has Flopped Because Noise Laws Prohibit Pop Concerts -- Re-Ignites Debate Between Noise Concerns and Economic Benefits (Nov. 14, 1999). The South China Morning Post reports that Hong Kong Stadium is used for international sports events, but promoters have been unwilling to book concerts there since they could be fined up to $300,000 for a noise violation that disturb nearby luxury apartment residents. Promoters were expected to take the chance of paying fines on occasion as a cost of doing business, but tests suggested that there would likely be consistent fines that would be more costly.
Independence, Ohio Approves Noise Ordinance that Addresses Late-Night Construction and Excessive Stereo Volume (Nov. 12, 1999). The Plain Dealer reports that a noise ordinance has been approved in Independence, Ohio that addresses excessive amplified noise and construction noise.
West Dundee, Illinois Considers Noise Ordinance to Address Garbage Collection, Construction, and Amplified Noise (Nov. 11, 1999). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that West Dundee, Illinois is considering a noise ordinance that would restrict amplified noise, construction noise, and trash collection. Fines will range from $5 to $500, and maintenance of public property will be exempted.
Mutley Plain, U.K. Sports Bar Receives Karaoke Permit for Thursday Nights, As Long As Nearest Neighbors Can't Hear Noise (Nov. 11, 1999). The Evening Herald reports that a Mutley Plain, U.K. sports bar has been granted a license to hold karaoke nights on Thursdays. The owner said that even though noise levels will be relatively low, neighbors might be able to hear sound. Neighbors were concerned about the noise, and the license rests on the promise that "noise could not be heard by the closest residents."
Nelson, New Zealand Arts Center Says It Is Singled Out Over Noise Problems (Nov. 9, 1999). The Nelson Mail reports that "The Artery", a community arts center in Nelson, New Zealand claims that it is being singled out in disputes over noise pollution. Artery officials say that the complaints are prejudicial because the music in question is techno music. Officials have spent $145,000 to soundproof the building to be under 45 decibels, but the city is now lowering the noise limits to 40 decibels because the bass notes are still disturbing residents.
UK Soundscape Community, the Intellectual Wing of the Anti-Noise National Society for Clean Air, Aims to Expose Muzak As Intrusive Noise (Nov. 7, 1999). The Sunday Herald reports that the new UK Soundscape Community wants to create a society of more active listeners, saying that more active listeners will recognize Muzak and related sounds as intrusive noise.
Sun Valley, California Methodist Churches Annoy Residents With Amplified Services; Local Officials Say Churches Have Taken Some Measures, But Little More Can Be Done (Nov. 7, 1999). The Daily News of Los Angeles reports that two churches in a Sun Valley neighborhood has become an increasing irritant to residents. Over the last two years forty complaints have been made, and the churches have taken some measures to reduce the noise. Although the local noise ordinance was amended to include churches, little can be done without restricting times of services,:a move that would be construed as a limit on religious freedom.
Brixham, U.K. Woman Is Fined -- and Her Stereo Equipment Is Confiscated -- for Repeated Noise Disturbances (Nov. 5, 1999). The Herald Express reports that a Brixham, U.K. woman was fined for repeated late-night disturbances. Three stereo systems were also confiscated. She offered to electronically limit the volume on her stereo for 50 pounds, but officers said it was too late.
Peoria, Arizona Resident Supports Fun Concerts for Youth, But Insists Upon Nearby Sports Complex Restricting Concert Noise Levels for Area Residents (Nov. 3, 1999). The Arizona Republic prints a letter to the editor which insists that the Peoria, Arizona Sports Complex should restrict noise levels at concerts.
Police Unable to Monitor Toronto Rave -- Attended By 15,000 -- Effectively Due to Weak Bylaws (Nov. 2, 1999). The Toronto Star reports that a noisy rave in Toronto, attended by about 15,000 people, was too much for police to effectively monitor under current local bylaws. Residents accused police of ignoring the problem, but they did what they could, asked for the volume to be turned down, and called noise abatement officers. Many people see the cities bylaws as putting profit before safety.
Tavern in Louisville, Kentucky Threatened with Fines Or Closing If Noise Ordinance Is Not Followed (Nov. 2, 1999). The Courier-Journal reports that Phoenix Hill Tavern in Louisville, Kentucky will pay a fine or face license suspension for violating local noise regulations. Eight noise citations this year and many other noise complaints resulted in the fines, which will be $2,400. If the tavern gets no noise violations for a year, additional fines will not be levied.
Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina Committee Should Have Noise-Reduction Strategy Recommendations for Aldermen by Summer (Nov. 2, 1999). The Morning Star reports that the Committee for a Better Beach, formed by the Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina Aldermen, plans to have noise-reduction strategy recommendations by summer. The main problem was seen to be bar noise: loud music, and noisy patrons on their way home.
Columnist Derides Montreal's Molson Centre Hockey Arena for Its Noise (Oct. 17, 1999). The Gazette prints a column, which derides Montreal's Molson Centre Hockey Arena as being too noisy. The scoreboard -- which spews annoying commercials -- and rock music played at the game are too loud. A doctor that was interviewed said hearing damage could result from repeated attendance at the hockey games just as it could at frequent rock concerts.
Des Moines, Iowa Police Claim Noise Ordinance Will Now Be Enforced (Oct. 17, 1999). The Des Moines Register reports that Des Moines, Iowa police will now enforce its noise ordinance, which has been around for years.
New Seattle Noise Ordinance Almost In Effect; Mayor and Council Must Agree on Rights of Music Clubs and Protestors (Oct. 15, 1999). The Seattle Post-Intelligencer reports that Seattle's new noise ordinance is almost in effect, but that the Mayor and the City Council still haven't agreed on a few issues. They must agree on whether music clubs will be given warnings before citations are issued, and when or whether protesters will be allowed to use bullhorns and other amplifiers. The Council seems willing to compromise on both issues to get the ordinance approved by the Mayor.
Seattle Editorial Staff Support City's New, Tougher Noise Ordinance (Oct. 15, 1999). The Seattle Post-Intelligencer prints an editorial which supports the Seattle City Council's proposed new noise ordinance. They agree with the Mayor that music clubs should be allowed warnings before fines kick in, and that protesters should be allowed to use amplifiers during the day. They see the fines as too mild.
Electioneering and Religious Festivals in Madras, India Fill the Air with Noise, and Police are Slow to Enforce Limits (Sep. 20, 1999). The Hindu reports that amplified sound from electioneering and religious festivals in Madras, India is getting worse., and the "touchiness" of religion in India means that police are often slow to act. Cars with altered mufflers or loud horns also cause disruption. Laws that exist include rules against cone speakers, and maximum noise levels in different zones.
Noise From Celebratory Culture in Guadalupe, Arizona Irritates Tempe Residents (Sep. 18, 1999). The Arizona Republic reports that noise from celebrations in the once-isolated Hispanic-Yaqui community of Guadalupe, Arizona has been bothering residents of an expanding Tempe. Noise and diminished property values are the concerns of Tempe residents, and even some residents of Guadalupe itself. Police acknowledge that the community is celebratory by nature, but enforce limits such as an 11:30 cut-off time for outdoor music.
Major Entertainers are Forgoing Stadium in Wellington, New Zealand Because Night Performances Are Limited to Six Yearly (Sep. 17, 1999). The Evening Post reports that WestPac Trust stadium in Wellington, New Zealand is losing the chance to host major performers because of a rule that limits night performances to six each year. The six are already booked, owing to several unusual opportunities to book world-class acts, and stadium officials say that any other promoters who are turned down because of the rule may be reluctant to try again next year. They claimed that the city will no longer be known as a world-class venue, and the community will lose millions when people who normally travel there to see concerts stop coming.
Rock City Gardens in Lookout Mountain, Georgia Rezoned As Business Conference District Despite Protests from Residents; Prompts Consideration of Noise Limitations (Sep. 17, 1999). The Chattanooga Times reports that an 18-room estate in Lookout Mountain, Georgia was rezoned as a family/business conference district which permits "business functions, educational retreats and social gatherings" such as weddings. Partly as a result of the rezoning, the Council is considering a noise ordinance. Residents believe the rezoning will increase traffic, noise, and commerce in the area.
Mason, Ohio Strengthens Noise Ordinance to Cover Loud Car-Stereos in Daytime (Sep. 16, 1999). The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that Mason, Ohio recently revised their noise ordinance to include noise that occurs during the day. After residents complained about the daytime noise, a new amendment includes daytime noise from car stereos. Fines could exceed $100. Noise "plainly audible" fifty feet from a car is considered a violation. Some council members were concerned that the law over-regulated noise.
New Noise Ordinance in Montgomery, Illinois to Be Enforced By Police Noise Meters (Sep. 16, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports that a new noise ordinance passed in Montgomery, Illinois will levy fines from $50 to $500 for noises over 60 decibels during the day and over 55 decibels at night. Lawn equipment will be exempt during the day and emergency vehicles will be exempt at all times. Complaints have been increasing in Montgomery in recently years, tending to center around live bands and car stereos.
New Ordinance and Enforcement Official in Louisville, Kentucky Can Impose $1000 Fines for Noise Measuring Over 45 Decibels On Neighboring Property (Sep. 15, 1999). The Courier-Journal reports that a new noise ordinance in Louisville, Kentucky will forbid noises of over 45 decibels as measured from a neighboring property. Fines could reach $1000, and may be accompanied by a 60 day jail term. The ordinance was drafted in response to complaints about noise from loud music at nightclubs.
Annapolis, Maryland Passes New Noise Ordinance (Sep. 14, 1999). The Capital reports on a new noise ordinance in Annapolis, Maryland. It applies to amplified music, shouting, and loud vehicles. A noise will be considered a violation if it can be heard fifty feet from the source.
Greenwood, Indiana City Council to Consider Raising the Fine for Noise Ordinance Violation from $15 (Sep. 10, 1999). The Indianapolis News reports on several local issues including tax abatement, property taxes, and noise. After complaints from an elderly resident about excessively loud car stereos, the city council is considering an increase in the current $15 fine for noise violations. Police receive frequent noise complaints but fines are too low to effectively deter violators.
Kansas City Columnist Appeals to Youth to Enjoy Powerful Stereos but Respect Other People By Using Reasonable Volumes (Sep. 9, 1999). The Kansas City Star prints a column that urges self-enforcement of reasonable volume levels on powerful car stereos. The author believes that stereos should be played at high volume: just not when others are around who will be bothered. He found several teenagers who believed that volumes should be turned down when people are around out of respect.
Police in Birmingham, U.K. Institute Rapid Response Team to Answer Late-Night Noise Complaints (Sep. 9, 1999). The Birmingham Evening Mail reports that police in Birmingham, U.K. have instituted a rapid response team to respond to late-night noise complaints. The team, which will respond to calls up until 1 AM, will have the authority to "initiate prosecutions" and seize sound amplification equipment. A pilot-program saw 167 noise complaints answered over 25 weeks, resulting in five prosecutions and the seizure of equipment.
Potential Noise from Bands at a Proposed Venue for Social Events Concerns Residents of Lookout Mountain, Georgia; Concerns May Spark Creation of a Noise Ordinance (Sep. 9, 1999). The Chattanooga Times reports that a request by a company in Lookout Mountain, Georgia to rezone a large residential estate so it may host social events there has residents concerned about noise. The city will consider a noise ordinance at their next meeting that might quell fears that there will be no noise limits imposed on the venue. The owners of the business say they planned all along to set noise limits if their rezoning request is approved.
Cranston, Rhode Island's Zoning Board Denies Burger King Drive-Up Window After Residents Complain About Potentially Increased Noise and Traffic (Sep. 9, 1999). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that Cranston, Rhode Island's Zoning Board denied Burger King's request for a drive-up window. The restaurant gathered 800 signatures that support the window, saying that many customers have asked for a drive-up window in the last two years; they maintain that concerns over increased traffic and drive-thru-speaker noise is unfounded. Residents say traffic is already backed up from cars turning into the restaurant, and fumes cause them to close their windows. Similar public outcry in 1997, when the restaurant was first opened, forced the restaurant to withdraw its request at that time.
Westerville Ohio, Near Columbus' Polaris Amphitheater to Enforce Its Noise Ordinance On the Venue (Sep. 8, 1999). The Columbus Dispatch reports that the City Council of Westerville, Ohio is considering changes to its noise ordinance which include the enforcement of noise limits on Polaris amphitheater in neighboring Columbus, Ohio. State law permits a city -- in this case Westerville -- to enforce its noise ordinances on noisy locations from an adjacent city if both cities agree. Westerville is also making changes to its ordinance to make it more enforceable. Westerville feels that Polaris has ignored their concerns up until now.
Louisville, Kentucky Columnist Applauds Aldermen for Strengthening the Noise Ordinance (Sep. 8, 1999). The Courier-Journal reports that the Aldermen of Louisville, Kentucky plan to amend the local noise ordinance to be tougher on noise from bars and cars. The Aldermen responded to a proposed wet-dry vote in the area -- designed to shut down loud bars -- by proposing the amendment. They also plan to hire a noise inspector that will monitor noise around the area.
Columnist Muses On the Increasing Use of Amplification In Traditionally Un-amplified Musicals, Plays and Operas, and Likens the Trend to Excessively Loud Movies and TV Ads (Sep. 3, 1999). Newsday prints a column on the increasing use of amplification in theatrical performance, noting the New York City Opera will be using amplification for the first time this season. She compares the technological progression with the increasing volume of movies -- up to an average of 110 decibels in some dramatic climaxes -- when the Royal Institute for the Deaf advises that people exposed to more than 90 decibels in the workplace wear ear protection. She also notes that TV advertisers crank the volume on their commercials. She finally returns to the business of theater, saying that amplification may encourage the growth of theater size and destroy intimate traditionally-sized venues.
Jaffrey, New Hampshire Police Begin Enforcement of Noise Ordinance (Aug. 28, 1999). The Union Leader reports that after loud car stereos caused noise problems outside quiet memorial day services this year, police in Jaffrey, New Hampshire decided to begin enforcing their noise ordinance. The ordinance also covers barking dogs, and loud motorcycles. Fines are $100.
St. Petersburg, Florida Police Step-Up Enforcement of Existing Noise Ordinance (Aug. 28, 1999). The Tampa Tribune reports that St. Petersburg, Florida police have stepped up enforcement of their noise ordinance. $43 tickets are issued after the first warning for noise that is plainly audible at 100 feet away.
Put-In-Bay, Ohio Create Noise Ordinance to Reduce Volume Competition Between Bars Meant to Attract Customers (Aug. 26, 1999). The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports that Put-In-Bay, Ohio has created a noise ordinance to crack down on bars which compete with each other by turning up their music. Police will now fine those who exceed 95 decibels on weekends and holidays $100.
St. Stephen, South Carolina Begins Enforcing Its Laws to Fine Cars with Excessively Loud Stereos or Darkly-Tinted Windows (Aug. 26, 1999). The Post and Courier reports that St. Stephen, South Carolina officials have begun more aggressive enforcement of several local laws. Now, you can be fined $348 for noise that can be heard over 50 feet away, or $360 for darkly-tinted rear windows on your car that could obstruct the view of police.
Warwick, Rhode Island Noise Ordinance to Be Retooled to Confront Loud Car Stereos (Aug. 23, 1999). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that officials in Warwick, Rhode Island are hoping to revise the local noise ordinance to address noise emanating from loud car stereos. The new ordinance would allow police to ticket motorists for loud car stereos based on judgment.
Wellington, New Zealand Tourism Officer Pushes Review of Restrictions that Limit Number of Loud Shows at Westpac Trust Stadium; Famous Act Could Sell Out Two More Shows If Permitted (Aug. 23, 1999). The Dominion reports that there is a push for review of restrictions that limit the number of loud shows at a local stadium, since a performer already scheduled for three nights could likely sell out two more shows if permitted. The tourism officer blames a few vocal residents for the limits, but a neighborhood resident said that residents simply accepted an offer from the stadium. There is always the chance that the performer will not exceed the decibel limit.
Santa Fe, New Mexico City Council Considers Changes to Current, Vague Noise Ordinance (Aug. 20, 1999). The Santa Fe New Mexican reports that Santa Fe plans to revise its noise laws. Currently, users of loud car stereos -- which are the main target of the ordinance alterations -- are ticketed only occasionally with a fine of $40. The Council is asking other cities what they've done, and are thus considering the prohibition of "music that can be heard 50 feet and more from the vehicle emitting it", or use of decibel meters.
Fine Dropped After Daphne, Alabama Church Takes Steps to Quiet Services; City Removes Allegedly Unconstitutional Exemptions from the Noise Ordinance (Aug. 19, 1999). The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports that a fine imposed on a noisy Daphne, Alabama church was dropped after the church took steps to quiet their services. The church challenged the ordinance that justified the fine, and the city has since agreed to amend the ordinance by removing exemptions to excessive noise; the church had claimed that the exemptions were unconstitutional.
Santa Fe Councilors Plan to Target Loud Car Stereos First in their Fight Against Noise (Aug. 19, 1999). The Santa Fe New Mexican reports that Santa Fe, New Mexico Councilors are planning to target loud car stereos as the first step in reducing noise pollution. Currently, $40 tickets are issued several times a week for loud car stereos, but the ordinance invoked is a broad one. The council does not want to unfairly target loud music, unless it is of a "neighborhood-disturbing, baby-waking, window-rattling" intensity. Research into ordinances from other communities should result in a draft in about a month.
Eureka Springs, Arkansas Nightclub Sued by Six Song Publishers After Playing their Songs Without Permission; Nightclub Owners Started Playing More Recorded Music After a New Noise Ordinance Restricted their Live Music (Aug. 18, 1999). The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reports that a nightclub in Eureka Springs, Arkansas is being sued by six song publishers after it allegedly played copyrighted songs without permission. The nightclub owners were restricted on how loud their live music could be after a noise ordinance was recently upheld, and it appears that their cavalier attitude over recorded music copyrights may have led them to fill the live-music void with illegally-played recordings.
Hammond, Louisiana Allocates Funds for Training of Police on Proper Use of Noise Monitors; Council Also Proposes New Liquor-License Renewal Process that Will Aid Enforcement of Noise Laws (Aug. 18, 1999). The Advocate reports that Hammond, Louisiana's City Council has approved $1,000 towards the training of police officers in the proper use of a $15,000 noise-monitoring device. The current decibel limit is 85 as measured 25-feet from the source, but lack of training has meant that the device has not been used. A proposed change in the liquor-license renewal process could also help officials enforce noise laws that proprietors often ignore.
Official Celebration of Millenium in Bath, UK Must Not be Disruptive After 2 AM, Says Council (Aug. 18, 1999). The Bath Chronicle reports that the Bath, UK Council has demanded that the Millennium Ball not be the source of disruptive noise after 2 am. A noise consultant has said that to comply with the 2 am disruption limit, "patrons will be likely to express some dissatisfaction with both the level and character of the dance music."
Street Dances at a Bangor, Maine Nightclub Draw Noise Complaints; City Decides to Work with Establishment Before Instituting a Noise Ordinance (Aug. 18, 1999). The Bangor Daily News reports that when street dances at a nightclub in Bangor, Maine drew noise complaints, the city decided to work with the establishment instead of instituting a noise ordinance. Residents complained of music and swearing that could be heard from the live band until 12:30 am. One owner said "get a decibel level you're happy with, and we will try to keep noise within that."
Noise from Queens Nightclub Draws Frequent Complaints from Nearby Residents (Aug. 16, 1999). Newsday reports that a popular nightclub in Queens draws regular complaints from neighboring residents about loud music and voices from patrons that continue until 4 a.m. The article notes that a shooting in February outside the club made for bad publicity, but the club has been law-abiding with legal noise levels and precautions such as designated parking lots and soundproofing. One more criminal activity in connection with the club would allow the police to shut the club down, but they say they would rather see a decrease in noise complaints.
Plymouth, United Kingdom Physician Says Loud Movies Should Include Health Warnings (Aug. 16, 1999). The Evening Herald reports that according to a doctor in Plymouth, U.K., loud movies should include a health warning. Movies, trailers, and advertisements are getting louder, according to the British Standards Institution. In the U.K., employees must be warned of noise levels above 85 decibels, and hearing protection must be provided if the levels breach 90; three popular movies were mentioned that exceeded 100 decibels.
Lake County, Illinois Considers Noise Limit of 70 Decibels for Special Events (Aug. 15, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports that Lake County, Illinois is considering a noise limit for special events under its "Unified Development Ordinance." County officials are considering a limit of six "special events of public interest", and a noise limitation of 70 decibels for those events.
Mayor of O'Fallon, Missouri Admits He Purchased the Wrong Sound System for a Local Stadium, and Asks Aldermen to Budget for a Better, Quieter System (Aug. 9, 1999). The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that the mayor of O'Fallon, Missouri admitted he purchased an inappropriately-loud sound-system for the "Little Rascals" baseball stadium. The system has caused noise complaints from residents around the stadium, and the mayor asked the aldermen to fund a new system; converting to the new system could cost $30,000-$100,000. Since the loud system was installed, the city has hired "a sound consultant, changed positions of the speakers and enacted a noise ordinance."
Environmental Impact Statement For Native American Tribe's Amphitheater Convinces Officials to Approve the Project, But a Community Group in the Seattle, Washington Area Says the Theater Would Ruin the Rural Character of the Area (Aug. 9, 1999). The Seattle Post-Intelligencer reports that a $30-million amphitheater near Auburn, Washington has earned a favorable environmental impact statement. A community group says that the impact report is a joke that "damages the credibility of the government agencies that oversaw it." The group claims that the rural character of the area will be ruined by the theater, and plans to attempt to block further construction through legal means.
Seattle, Washington Resident Irritated By Noise From Inconsiderate Night Clubs (Aug. 8, 1999). The Seattle Times prints a letter to the editor written by a noise activist in Seattle, Washington. She writes that nightclubs in the area need to learn to be good neighbors who operate within noise limits.
Plympton St. Maurice, U.K. Pub Fined for Noise Violations (Aug. 7, 1999). The Evening Herald reports that a pub manager in Plympton St. Maurice was fined 250 pounds for each of four noise violations after a noise abatement notice was served. The man admitted to the violations, but said the brewery was supposed to soundproof the walls.
Salvation Army In Old Orchard Beach, Maine Cited For Noise From Its Annual Meeting (Aug. 6, 1999). The Portland Press Herald reports that in Old Orchard Beach, Maine, the Salvation Army has been cited with a noise violation. The group was warned earlier this week, but noise levels from its two-week annual meeting continued to exceed local limits.
Chicago Suburb Police Attack Loud Car Stereos By Impounding Cars and Levying High Fines (Aug. 4, 1999). The Chicago Sun-Times reports that several suburbs around Chicago have been fighting an epidemic of loud car stereos by impounding cars and issuing fines of up to $500. Some police departments are allowed to use their own judgment to determine violators, while some communities have set distances -- such as 75 feet -- at which noise can not be audible. Courts generally allow police to impound cars when the driver breaks a specific law, although the American Civil Liberties Union says it's a "quick fix."
Montford, North Carolina Residents Complain About Continuing Noise from Loud Car Stereos and Reckless Drivers; New Noise Ordinance to Raise Fines for Repeat Offenders (Aug. 4, 1999). The Asheville Citizen-Times reports that Montford, North Carolina residents are being disturbed by noise from loud car stereos and reckless drivers, especially at night. A new ordinance is being considered which would raise the $50 fine for repeat offenders. Police find the current ordinance difficult to enforce since in most cases neither officers nor residents have actually witnessed the crime being committed; they are trying to create a community watch, and are increasing patrols in the area.
Bar in Knoxville, Tennessee Launches Call-In Campaign Against City Council's Noise Ordinance; Citations Have Forced the Bar to Stop Offering Live Music (Aug. 3, 1999). The Knoxville News-Sentinel reports that after two noise citations in one night, a Knoxville, Tennessee bar has canceled its live music and launched a call-in campaign against the City Council's noise ordinance. The noise ordinance sets a decibel limit of 80 before midnight and 75 after, although the bar owner said bands need 90 decibels.
Two Noise Stories From Jerusalem, Israel: Woman Wins Lawsuit Over Noise at Retirement Community; Drag Club Forced to Move After Residents Complain (Jul. 30, 1999). The Jerusalem Post reports on several issues in communities surrounding Jerusalem, including a political race, new burial options, and several issues relating to noise. A woman who entered a retirement home in 1990 has won a lawsuit against the home which has changed from a peaceful, quiet place due to a nearby long-term construction project that began in 1994. Also in this article was information about a drag club that is being forced to move. Residents' complaints of noise forced the club to close first at midnight, and most recently at 11 PM. Club owners feel they must move because they will not be able to bring in enough money with such short operating hours. Club owners believe that residents' real complaints center around the club's clientele, which includes homosexual and cross-dressing people. Officials deny the allegations, saying that the club has been operating without proper permits, and that a non-drag club in the same building faces the same restrictions
Revisions to Noise Ordinance in Florence, Alabama Simplify Enforcement (Jul. 29, 1999). The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports that Florence, Alabama officials have revised a noise ordinance to make it easier to enforce. An officer can identify violators by how far away he can hear their noise, instead of having to measure the sound with a special device. Violators will be ticketed up to $200; they will receive a ticket similar to a traffic violation instead of a full arrest procedure that was required under the old ordinance.
New Noise Ordinance to Be Proposed in Louisville, Kentucky After Local Tavern Receives Ten Citations (Jul. 28, 1999). The Courier-Journal reports that continued complaints about Lousiville, Kentucky's Phoenix Hill Tavern, which has been warned and cited over ten times in the past year, has spurred interest in a new noise ordinance. The article reports that the new ordinance will restrict outdoor music, and revise the current ordinance's vague description of 'unnecessary noise' with measurable noise limits. The tavern owner supports the ordinance, noting that he has already spent substantial amounts of money on sound abatement.
Some at Seniors Community in South Bend, Indiana Are Bothered by Street Noise, Others Are Not (Jul. 25, 1999). The South Bend Tribune reports that while some senior citizens at the Robertson's Apartments in downtown South Bend, Indiana are disturbed by street noise, others are not. Residents who are bothered cite a loud bar across the street, unruly patrons from the bar, motorcycles loud enough to set off car alarms, and outdoor concerts at a nearby parking garage. The outdoor concerts -- whose organizers have agreed to face the bands away from the apartments -- always end before 11 PM, and the bar owner said he establishment has been fight-free for over one year, though the article didn't address the legality of other noises. Some residents blame city planners for allowing a senior citizen community next to a loud bar, while they commend the easy access they have to bus service and shopping.
Noise from Omaha, Nebraska's Ranch Bowl Concert Gets Show Shut Down; City Officials and Neighbors Call for Noise Reduction (Jul. 23, 1999). The Omaha World-Herald reports that a recent concert at Omaha, Nebraska's Ranch Bowl, noise was loud enough to get the show shut down. After a warning at 7:30, police pulled the plug at 10 PM. The current ordinance allows for a $500 fine and 6 months in jail, and a new proposal would require a permit for all outdoor events. Other problems associated with Ranch Bowl concerts include illegally parked cars and litter, which the owner said he will address. The Ranch Bowl -- a popular bowling spot for years -- has a long history including visits from at least two American Presidents.
O'Fallon, Missouri Enacts Emergency Noise Ordinance to Address Noise Complaints Directed At Baseball Field (Jul. 22, 1999). St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports that a noise ordinance was passed in O'Fallon, Missouri to address increasing noise complaints directed at a local ballfield. Noise registers in the high 90s at the field, and in the 50s outside of it; the new ordinance's limit is 93 inside the park and 50 outside. The city has hired a consultant to determine strategies for reducing noise, which may include replacing the speaker system in large part; the owner of the ballfield has said he is open to that possibility.
Polaris Amphitheater in Columbus, Ohio Backs Down on Promise to Build Noise Wall (Jul. 22, 1999). The Columbus Dispatch reports that Columbus, Ohio's Polaris Amphitheater, whose management promised to build a sound wall to reduce noise that disturbs neighbors, will not build the wall. The amphitheaters parent company says the wall is too expensive and may not be effective, and is hiring a noise consultant to determine alternative strategies; City Council has asked the company for a timeline. Residents are upset that the city council is not enforcing its own noise ordinance, and say that enforcement should happen before soundproofing.
Police in Troy, New York Confiscate Cars with Too-Loud Stereos as Evidence of Noise Violations (Jul. 22, 1999). The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports that noise ordinance enforcement in Troy, New York sometimes include confiscating cars with loud car stereos. If stereo volume is measured higher than 76 decibels at 50 feet away, the car is violating the noise ordinance and can be confiscated. Fines begin at $35, and violators -- who include bearers of too-loud boom boxes and motorcycles -- are responsible for any towing costs.
New Orleans Resident Wants Noise Police (Jul. 17, 1999). The Times-Picayune prints a letter to the editor from a New Orleans resident. He lists several instances throughout his week when he wishes there had been 'noise police', or at least noise laws put in place by local legislators.
New Noise Ordinance in Carmel, Indiana Imposes Stiff Fines for Loud Car Stereos (Jul. 16, 1999). The Indianapolis News reports that a new noise ordinance has been proposed in Carmel, Indiana's City Council that impose stiff fines on noise such as that from loud car stereos. Fines will range from $250 to $2500. Common household lawn and garden equipment will be exempt from 7 AM to 10 PM, as well as approved gatherings and celebrations. Violations will include sound heard from forty feet away or sound measured at 90 decibels or above at 6 feet from the source.
Change to Noise Ordinance in Alexandria, Louisiana Means Stiffer Fines for Violators (Jul. 14, 1999). The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports that Alexandria, Louisiana's new noise ordinance promises stiffer fines for violators. Violators will pay from $137 to $587 for creating excessive noise: especially from nightclubs and vehicles. The old ordinance cost violators only $121 for each violation, regardless of the number of previous citations.
Cross Plains, Wisconsin Introduces Ordinance to Regulate Noise from Outdoor Concerts (Jul. 13, 1999). The Capital Times reports that the Town Board of Cross Plains, Wisconsin has introduced an ordinance which will limit outdoor concerts to 48 hours, with music allowed between 1 and 11 PM; only one outdoor concert will be permitted at any venue during any one year. A local tavern's outdoor music may be affected, but its indoor music would have to be cited under county law, although the Town plans to give the owner some leeway since he has showed a cooperative spirit.
Parishioner at St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans, Louisiana Applauds New Law to Keep Street Performers Quiet During Church Services (Jul. 12, 1999). The Times-Picayune prints a letter to the Editor from a parishioner at St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans, Louisiana who approves of a new law to restrict street performers and musicians from interrupting church services with loud music. She lived near the cathedral until recently when she realized that the noise was causing stress-related illnesses in her family. She notes that street performers aren't always musicians, but are often jugglers or other entertainers with boom boxes.
Elkhart, Indiana Toughens Noise Ordinance (Jul. 11, 1999). The South Bend Tribune reports that Elkhart, Indiana's noise ordinance will be toughening fines, ranging from $100 to $2500. The ordinance will now apply around the clock, and police can identify violators by hearing a noise 50 feet from the source, measuring over 83 decibels at 15 feet, or subjectively judging a sound to be "inherently offensive and patently obnoxious." Recent regulation of train whistles in Elkhart prompted the revisions to the ordinance in the interest of dealing with several other noise issues -- such as loud mufflers or stereos -- at the same time.
Police in Flushing, Michigan Use Unmarked Cars to Identify Noise Ordinance Violators (Jul. 10, 1999). The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports that police in Flushing, Michigan have been cracking down on loud car stereos this summer using a 1992 noise ordinance. The ordinance includes a $500 fine or 90-day jail term for violators. Officers have been using unmarked cars to enforce the ordinance, so violators don't recognize patrol cars and lower the volume.
UK Town Councils Provide Noise Education For Neighborhoods (Jul. 8, 1999). According to the Sentinel, borough [town] councils in the UK have received so many noise complaints during the summer, prompting local officials to provide public education programs to help neighbors prevent noise before they make it.
Noise Activists in England Call For Stronger Ordinances (Jul. 8, 1999). The Birmingham Post reports that excessive noise ranging from quarreling neighbors and overly loud stereos to jet noises overhead have prompted an increase in noise activism in England.
Tulsa Residents Not Happy Over Amusement Park's Proposed Expansion (Jul. 8, 1999). According to the Tulsa World, residents near Expo Square are anything but amused with Bell's Amusement Park's proposed expansion and addition of a larger roller coaster.
UK City Council Smashes Loud Stereo As Warning On Noise Action Day (Jul. 7, 1999). The Gloucester Citizen reports that the city council made an example out of one noisy neighbor by smashing his stereo in a ceremony on Noise Action Day.
UK Groups Say Noise Is Hazardous to Your Health (Jul. 7, 1999). According to the Times Newspapers, you can get sick from an over exposure to noise. Loud music, neighbors that fight, barking dogs and the do-it-yourselfer who uses a hammer and drill too long are all among the most emphatic noise complaints.
UK Town Councils Urge Quiet Reflection On National Noise Awareness Day (Jul. 7, 1999). According to the Derby Evening Telegraph, the North East Derbshire District Council called for day of quiet and consideration among neighbors in honor of National Noise Awareness Day.
Increasing Noise Complaints in UK Prompts Activists to Call for Strategy (Jul. 7, 1999). The Press Association reports that noise is a health hazard as well as an irritant, but we're not doing enough to mitigate it.
Excessively Loud Car Stereo's Should Be Challenged With Product Liability Lawsuits Similar to Recent Attacks on Cigarette and Firearm Manufacturers (Jun. 25, 1999). The Oklahoma Observer prints an opinion piece by a resident who is consistently irritated by excessively loud stereos in so-called 'boom cars.' He cites scientific evidence of human health and safety problems caused by noise, including hearing impairment, decreased response time while driving, stress contributing to heart disease, and sleep deprivation. The author also suggests that 'Gangsta Rap', which some say contribute to increasing violence in schools, is often used to show-off loud car stereo systems; he suggests that the music's market could be somewhat undermined by attacking excessively loud car stereos, circumventing sticky constitutional issues. Finally, he suggests that product liability lawsuits should be brought against loud stereo manufacturers, similar to those recently levied against cigarette manufacturers.
Louisiana Senate Approves Bill to Prohibit Excessive Noise Near Hospitals and Houses of Worship (Jun. 18, 1999). The Times-Picayune reports the Louisiana Senate approved a bill that would prohibit loud noises near hospitals and houses of worship.
Isle of Palms, SC Restaurant Wins Court Battle over "Overbroad" Noise Ordinance (Jun. 17, 1999). The Post and Courier reports a federal judge ruled that the Isle of Palms noise ordinance is too vague and broad to be legally enforcable.
Miami Club Abandons Noise Ordinance Lawsuit After City Drops Violation Fines (Jun. 17, 1999). The Broward Daily Business Review reports a Miami club has abandoned its lawsuit challenging the constitutionality of several noise ordinances after the city dropped the fines it had levied against the club for violating them.
Naperville, IL Seeks to Refine Its Noise Ordinances (Jun. 17, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports the city of Naperville, IL has moved from tackling noisy car stereos to completely remaking all its noise-related ordinances.
Tavares, Florida City Council Postpones Passage of Noise Ordinance; More Objective Definitions Needed (Jun. 17, 1999). The Orlando Sentinel Tribune reports the Tavares City Council has postponed the passage of a new noise ordinance until it can create more objectives standards for the law.
New York City Enacts New, Stricter Noise Ordinance (Jun. 16, 1999). The Associated Press (through the Dessert News, Salt Lake City, UT) reports some New Yorkers are unhappy with a new, strict noise ordinance recently passed by the city council.
Dallas, TX Columnist Complains about Overly-Stimulating Ballpark Noise (Jun. 15, 1999). The Dallas Morning News ran an opinion column by William McKenzie, who feels ballparks are becoming too noisy for patrons.
Tavares, FL City Council to Vote on Stricter Noise Ordinance (Jun. 15, 1999). The Orlando Sentinel Tribune reports the Tavares City Council will vote on a stricter noisie ordinance.
Hot Springs, AK Police to Target Noisy Car Stereos and "Boom Boxes" in City (Jun. 14, 1999). The Associated Press reports police in Hot Springs, Arkansas will begin issuing more noise ordinance citations in the wake of increased complaints from residents about car stereos and "boom boxes."
Noise Greatest Cause of Hearing Loss in Aging Baby Boomers (Jun. 14, 1999). The Palm Beach Post reports President Clinton's noise-related hearing loss has prompted other baby boomers to seek treatment for their own noise-related hearing problems.
Clark County, WA Group Fights Proposed Amphitheater (Jun. 13, 1999). The Columbian reports residents of Clark County, WA fear a proposed amphitheater will ruin their peace and quiet. For ammunition, they have examined what life is like near Virginia's GTE Virginia Beach Amphitheater.
New Tampa, FL Noise Ordinance Has Residents Asking for More Restrictions, Bar Owners for Less (Jun. 11, 1999). The St. Petersberg Times reports Tampa resident have long requested a stricter noise ordinance, but business-- particularly bar -- owners say they cannot exist under the proposed new limits.
Chicago, Illinois Alderman Suggests Easing Noise Ordinance Against Boom-Cars, Claiming Consequence of Car-Impoundment Falls Too Disproportionately on Minorities; City Council Disagrees (Jun. 8, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports that a Chicago, Illinois City Council committee rejected a proposal to limit the hours that the noise ordinance against boom-cars would apply. Currently, car-owners who play excessively loud stereos can be fined up to $500, and have their car-impounded; getting their car back costs $115. The alderman claimed that violators were disproportionately minorities, and that they were unfairly hindered from going to work. The proposal would have limited the applicable hours of the ordinance to between 9 AM and 9 PM.
Residents of East Harlem, New York Complain About Excessively Loud Worship Services (Jun. 6, 1999). The New York Times reports that East Harlem, New York residents are fed up with noise that registers up to 90 dB in their living rooms from the nearby Iglesia Pentecostal Abrigo del Altissimo church. Two summer's ago, the amplified services -- which include preaching and singing -- happened for several hours in the evenings, seven days a week, for two months; the church arrived with a tent and set it up in an empty lot with a public address system that faced the street. Residents say that Harlem has never been a quiet place, but also say that this church is excessively loud.
Cleveland's Revitalized Warehouse District Gets Louder, Residents Complain (Jun. 3, 1999). The Cleveland Scene reports that while Cleveland's previously decaying Warehouse District is now jumping with nightclubs, an equally expanding residential population -- currently 1,533 residents and expected to grow by another 500 this year -- is concerned about the noise from bands, noisy patrons, and traffic that continue past 2 AM. The Historic Warehouse District Development Corporation will be funding a survey to determine if residents in the District feel noise is a problem. The mayor claims he is concerned with noise in neighborhoods, and will be looking into the issue.
Providence, Rhode Island City Council Proposes Revisions to Toughen Noise Ordinance (Jun. 3, 1999). Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that the City Council of Providence, Rhode Island is making revisions to their ordinance that should make enforcement easier and stiffen fines. The revisions come as noise complaints continue to roll in during the loud summer season, and are meant to target car radios, amplification systems, and home stereos. Excessive noise is defined loosely as"any noise audible at a distance of 200 feet from its source by a person of normal hearing," allowing officers to make a judgment call. $100 fines will be the minimum, and will double for uncontested violations. Repeat offenders will draw a $100 surcharge on top of any fine. Fines will be $500 for violators who contest a fine but are found guilty, or they may serve up to 10 days in jail.
Tavares, Florida's City Council Gave Preliminary Approval to New Noise Ordinance; Some Worry it is Too Subjective (Jun. 3, 1999). The Orlando Sentinel Tribune reports that the City Council of Tavares, Florida has given its preliminary approval to a noise ordinance which would allow police to ticket violators from $50 to $250. The ordinance was proposed in response to complaints targeted at a local restaurant that hosts live bands. The ordinance defines violations subjectively as "noise which tends to cause discomfort or disturbs or annoys any reasonable person of normal sensitiveness residing in the area," and proceeds to define it more objectively as "the use or operation of any radios, sound amplifiers, loudspeakers and musical instruments, among other things, plainly audible between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. at a distance of 50 feet." Restaurant operators maintain they are not violating any ordinance, and wish the ordinance would set a truly objective, decibel limit.
Haines City, Florida Council Will Hold Workshop to Tighten Noise Ordinance (Jun. 2, 1999). The Ledger reports that Haines City, Florida's City Council will be holding an after-meeting workshop designed to find ways to toughen the local noise ordinance; the workshop will be open to the public. Residents have complained for years that the existing ordinance isn't well enforced, and police who try to enforce it have complained that "because of assumptions judges have made, it is hard to get it enforced in the courts." One main target of the new revisions is a better way to restrict excessively loud car stereos. Many elderly people in the community are afraid to call the police to complain, and they wish police would tighten enforcement so they didn't have to.
Louisiana Racetrack Loses Bid to Block Town From Enforcing Noise Ordinance (May 29, 1999). An Associated Press article reports that on the eve of a special racing event, the Boothill Speedway in Greenwood, Louisiana lost its battle with the town's enforcement of a noise ordinance. Boothill Speedway owners were prepared for a fine because the special event would violate curfew and noise ordinances, but were not prepared for the ruling.
Louisiana Racetrack Loses; Noise Ordinance Wins (May 29, 1999). (May 29, 1999). An Associated Press article reports that on the eve of a special racing event, the Boothill Speedway in Greenwood, Louisiana lost its battle with the town's enforcement of a noise ordinance.
Poor Weather Forces Rescheduling of Noise Tests to Help Boaters Comply with New Noise Law on Chicago area's Chain o' Lakes (May 24, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports that noise tests, designed to help boaters comply with a new noise ordinance on the Chicago area's Chain o' Lakes, were poorly attended due to miserable weather. The tests will be rescheduled for early June. The new ordinance starts with the state-mandated 90 dB limit for idling boats and 70 dB for moving boats, but gives marine officers the ability to determine excessive noise by ear since traditional noise-measuring equipment is designed for use on the open water.
Proposed "Entertainment Zones" in Seattle Would Relax Strict Noise Rules; Some See a Balance Between Residents and Vibrant Nightlife, Others See Residential Density Being Discouraged (May 22, 1999). Seattle Post-Intelligencer reports that Seattle's loudest late-night businesses may find refuge from the city's tough new noise ordinances -- including $250 fines -- in a new idea: Entertainment Zones. City council is considering designating designating these zones to allow a loud, vibrant nightlife to flourish in some areas while protecting residential tranquility in others. Many businesses love the idea, but at least one citizen group believes the zones would be unfair to current residents and contribute to urban sprawl. The columnists address the issue in a humorous way, following a luckless drunken man through his night.
Tavares, Florida City Council Considering Noise Ordinance After Resident Complaints About Nearby Restaurant (May 21, 1999). Orlando Sentinel Tribune reports that Tavares, Florida's City Council is considering a noise ordinance that would fine violators -- which could include those making "any excessive sound that disturbs the peace, including music, barking dogs and construction" -- up to $500. If noise continues, violators could be required to appear before the city Code Enforcement Board. The ordinance stems from resident complaints about a 7-month-old neighborhood restaurant that plays loud music. While many council members support a noise law, some think it is too subjective. At least one member does not believe the city should be subjected to an ordinance because of problems in a particular area.
Noise Laws in Durham, North Carolina Made Stricter in Response to Repeated Violence at Downtown Dance Club (May 18, 1999). The News and Observer reports that Durham, North Carolina has strengthened their noise and loitering laws in response to several incidents of violence this year at a downtown dance club. A fatal shooting outside the club in December, and serious injury resulting from a fist-fight in April convinced lawmakers the regulation was necessary. Wording of the laws are now more encompassing, meaning that patrons of "The Power Company" and other revelers can not "create noise that is "unreasonably loud" and "disturbing" or make sounds that exceed certain decibel levels at certain times."
French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana is Site of Disagreement for Street Musicians and Parishioners Desiring Quiet (May 17, 1999). The Times-Picayune reports that a Cathedral in New Orleans' French Quarter has become a place of conflict between street musicians and parishioners. Parishioners claim their right to worship is being compromised by street musician's noise, and had threatened to sue the city; in response, no-noise signs have been erected and a pledge has been made by local police to enforce noise limits there.
Tavares, Florida City Council to Discuss Proposed Noise Ordinance (May 17, 1999). Orlando Sentinel Tribune reports that Tavares, Florida's city council will discuss a proposed noise ordinance that would target those who create nuisance noise. The proposition comes after a petition of 154 names was submitted last month by neighbors of a new, loud restaurant. Council members maintain that the ordinance is not targeted at the restaurant, rather it fills in a previous gap in the city's laws.
Owner of Bar on Fox Lake in Illinois Under Fire from Lakeshore Residents Claiming His Music, Piers Are Disruptive and Lower Their Property Value (May 16, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports that the Electric Harbor Marina, on Fox Lake in Illinois, is disrupting neighbors on the shores of Columbia Bay. Residents say the bar and summer afternoon concerts that Electric Harbor started last year are too loud, and complain that the 66 boat slips there detract from their views and property value; Bob Glueckert is trying to sell his house, and can't because Electric Harbor has effectively taken more than $250,000 off of its value. The owner, Larry Phillips, says he has no intention of changing.
Police Post Signs Barring Noise at St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans, Street Musicians Are Upset and Think It's Just the Beginning (May 14, 1999). The Times-Picayune reports that police in New Orleans' French Quarter posted signs in front of St. Louis Cathedral suggesting musicians were not welcome. Musicians are upset, and some signs have disappeared. An attorney who has represented street performers in the past say the signs, intended to bar noise above 78 decibels 50 feet from its source during services, seem to suggest that no noise is acceptable at any time. Parishioners planned to sue for their right to worship without disruptive sound, but they are holding off since the city has posted the signs and promised to enforce the noise limits. The noise limits in the quarter are already above the 70 decibels in other residential areas of New Orleans.
Shock Jock Defends His Loud but Legal Nightclub at County Commission in Hernando County, Florida (May 12, 1999). The St. Petersburg Times reports that Clem, a radio shock-jock in Hernando County, Florida visited the County Commission to defend his nightclub against noise complaints. The nightclub is within the local noise ordinance limits, but neighbors are still complaining. Clem has pledged to install noise-blocking panels, and pays off-duty sheriffs deputies to patrol the parking lot on weekends, and insists that he is doing nothing wrong.
Durham, North Carolina Noise/Trespassing Ordinances Revised to Keep Nightclub "Let-out" Quieter (May 11, 1999). The News and Observer reports that changes to Durham, North Carolina's noise and trespasssing ordinances, aimed at quieting nightclub 'let-out', will go to the City Council for approval. The "Power Company" nightclub has been the setting for a shooting and a major fist-fight in the last year, and city officials made the ordinance changes to give police more authority in keeping closing time quiet and orderly. The changes require patrons -- who can number in the thousands outside the club at closing -- to move to their car 'without delay', and define noise violations more loosely as "unreasonably loud and disturbing." In addition to the problems with violence, neighbors had been complaining about noise from music and unruly patrons.
Audience Complaints of Loud Trailers Lead Hollywood to Set Standard Volume Limits (May 7, 1999). The Los Angeles Times reports that audience complaints over loud trailers have led Hollywood to set volume limits. Since trailers are traditionally recorded louder than the feature to grab attention, turning trailers down in a movie theater can make the film too soft. After a test by Hollywood engineers last summer showed that some trailers can average more sound intensity that the New York Subway (92 decibels), the Trailer Audio Standards Association started thinking about new volume limits; this spring the new controls were unveiled which would turn down the loudest trailers by one-third.
Radio Personality Clem Plans to Attend Hernando County, Florida Commissioners Meeting to Protest "Persecution" of His Nightclub (May 6, 1999). The St. Petersburg Times reports that "Bubba the Love Sponge Clem", a radio DJ in Hernando County, plans to attend the County commissioner's meeting to protest what he describes as a 'witch hunt' against him. Clem's recently-opened nightclub in Spring Hill has been drawing noise complaints from neighbors, but Clem claims the volume is under allowable limits. The County claims that noise meters do not pick up bass, which creates the disruptive thumping; the County has ordered a new $3000 noise meter that is capable of picking up lower frequency sounds. The noise ordinance would have to be changed in order to use the new meter for enforcement.
Police in Naperville, Illinois Ask City Council for Noise Ordinance Amendment Allowing Impounding of Cars When Stereos Are Too Loud (May 6, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports that Naperville, Illinois police have asked city council to amend the noise ordinance to allow the impounding of cars when their stereos are too loud. The request comes in response to noise problems in a local parking lots in front of Walgreen's on the scenic Riverwalk. Teenagers often crank their stereos in the parking lot, fight, and "quite frankly make a point to intimidate other people." It would cost $250 to release an impounded car.
United Latin American Pentecostal Church in Delta, Colorado Draws Noise Complaints and Misdemeanor Charges from Neighbors (May 4, 1999). The Denver Post reports that a United Latin American Pentecostal Church in Delta, Colorado is drawing complaints from neighbors about excessive noise. Amplified sermons, rock-band music, and shouting emanates from the dilapidated wood-frame church on Sunday mornings and evenings as well as Wednesday and Saturday evenings. Church officials are facing trial on two misdemeanor counts of causing unreasonable noise.
Rock Concert Cut Off Due to Existing County Curfew on Amphitheater Sound (May 1, 1999). The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports that a rock concert by Lenny Kravitz was cut off in mid-song in Littleton, Colorado when a county curfew on sound was broken. Arapahoe county negotiated a 10:30 curfew on sound at the Fiddler's Green amphitheater, and the concert promoter pulled the plug promptly at 10:30 in order to comply. Kravitz started the show late due to equipment problems, and warned the audience that he may be cut off. Some attendees were upset, and called demanding their money back, despite the fact that the concert had run for some 4.5 hours.
Columnist Takes Humorous Look at Excessive Noise at Two Venues in Washington D.C. That Are Not Regulated (Apr. 30, 1999). The Washington Post prints a humorous column which examines noise laws in Washington D.C. The columnists discusses a shoe store which blares loud music and promos, as well as a hockey game at MCI Center where the public address system is extremely loud. He notes that while Washington's 1981 noise laws prohibits "loud noises . . . upon the streets or public places," it does not prohibit loud noise in private places (such as the two venues mentioned) where the public sometimes goes. The columnist's theory is that promoters believe high volume will encourage the spending of money.
New Noise Ordinance in Evansville, Indiana Allows Police to Identify Violators by Distance, Eliminating Need for Decibel Meters (Apr. 29, 1999). The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports that a new Evansville, Indiana noise ordinance will forbid car stereos and boom boxes from being heard 30 feet away. Police will now be able to identify violators by measuring distance, and will not need decibel meters. Increasing noise complaints from residents prompted the new ordinance. About 50 residents attended a recent city council meeting to support the ordinance.
Noise from Nightclub in Spring Hill, Florida Keeps Neighbors Up, Though Sound is Within Ordinance Limits (Apr. 26, 1999). The St. Petersburg Times reports that music from Spring Hill, Florida's nightclub Planet Bubba is too loud for residents, though the volume is under local decibel limits. Though the club is located in a commercial district, nearby residents complain that the bass remains too loud and disrupts their sleep. Owner of the nightclub and local radio personality Bubba the Love Sponge Clem claims that he spent $50,000 on a 'compressor limiter' to cap the amplified volume, insulated walls, and moved entrances in an attempt to limit noise; he is upset that he is still being hounded even though he meets the noise ordinance.
Newport, Washington Police Chief Proposes Ban on Booming Car Stereos (Apr. 25, 1999). The Spokesman-Review reports the local police chief in Newport, Washington wants to ban excessively-loud bass-heavy car stereos that disrupt local residents and businesses. An employee of a local chiropractic clinic said "We don't let [economically important] loggers use jake brakes, so why do we let young people boom us out?" The police chief lives 100-200 feet from U.S. 2, but can still hear the loudest stereos. Other members of the City Council haven't heard complaints and don't believe it's a problem; they'd prefer to rely on the existing ordinance.
NC Residents Seek Relief from Noise and Artificial Light (Apr. 17, 1999). The Morning Star reports the Ocean Isle Beach Planning Board will meet later this month to craft ordinances that regulate noise and outdoor lighting as neighborhoods expand on the North Carolina barrier island.
With Noise Ordinance Vote, Arkansas Town Remains Quiet (Apr. 17, 1999). The Arkansas Democrat-Gazette reports residents of Eureka Springs, Arkansas, sent a message loud and clear Tuesday that they want a quiet little town.
Bill Passes Louisiana House, Protects Churches from Outside Noise (Apr. 15, 1999). The Times-Picayune reports a Louisiana State House committee approved a bill Wednesday that would make it a crime to blast music or other noise within 200 feet of a church, hospital or courthouse.
NC Town Amends Noise Ordinance, Debates Purchase of Noise Meters (Apr. 15, 1999). The Morning Star (Wilmington, NC) reports the Carolina Beach, North Carolina, town council took steps Tuesday night to eliminate disparities in its noise ordinance.
Automobile Noise Regulations Now Law in Raleigh, NC (Apr. 8, 1999). The News and Observer reports in attempt to regulate noise from high-powered car stereos, the Raleigh, North Carolina, City Council unanimously approved an automobile noise ordinance Tuesday.
Raligh, NC, Adopts Noise Ordinance to Govern Amplified Music (Apr. 7, 1999). The News and Observer reports the Raleigh, North Carolina, City Council approved a new noise ordinance Tuesday that will govern business where amplified music is played.
NC County May Use "Reasonableness Standard" to Measure Noise and Enforce Ordinance (Apr. 6, 1999). The Herald-Sun reports Durham County, North Carolina, in an effort to make its noise ordinance for enforceable, is considering revising the standards by which it measures noise.
New Noise Ordinance in Florida Town will Require Special Permits (Apr. 6, 1999). The Sarasota Herald-Tribune reports Palmetto, Florida, officials will seek public input on the city's proposed noise-control ordinance amendments at a hearing scheduled for May 3.
Michigan Town Wants to Lower Volume on Noisy Car Stereos (Apr. 5, 1999). The Associated Press reports some residents of Saginaw Township, Michigan, want to see a change in a local noise ordinance that would focus on noisy car stereos.
British Columbia Town Restricts Noisy All-Night Dance Parties (Apr. 5, 1999). The Vancouver Sun reports the town of Richmond, British Columbia, has drafted a bylaw that will restrict all night dance parties, known as raves, in response to residents' noise complaints and criticisms of other kinds.
Calif. Writer Says Noise Violates Even Sacred Places in Our Modern World (Apr. 4, 1999). The Ventura County Star published a column in which the author tells of a recent vacation across Coconino National Forest of northern Arizona, where she rediscovered the sounds of silence. But in her attempt to embrace it, she notes the pervasive lack of silence in our modern world.
Raleigh, NC, Home of Db (Decibel) Drag Racer Champion, Adopts Car Audio Ordinance (Apr. 3, 1999). The News and Observer reports in an attempt to control drive-by concerts, Raleigh, North Carolina, will likely adopt an ordinance prohibiting music that is audible 50 feet from a vehicle.
Acoustic Ecology: Hearing Care and Preserving the Rare Sounds of Silence (Apr.1 1999). Cooking Light Magazine reports natural quiet in the United States is difficult to find in these modern times of more cars, more planes, more appliances, and more people. What we hear and how well we hear it is a major concern of both audiologists and a movement called acoustic ecology.
High School Prom Committee to Request Exception to Noise Ordinance in Newport Beach, California (Mar. 31, 1999). The Los Angeles Times reports high school students in Newport Beach, California, have come up against a noise ordinance in planning the 2000 prom.
Raleigh, NC, Revises Noise Ordinance to Regulate Businesses that Feature Music; Many Homeowners Remain Dissatisfied (Mar. 27, 1999). The News and Observer reports Raleigh, North Carolina, leaders said they tried to balance concern for neighbors' peace and quiet with the needs of a lively urban life when they drafted a revised noise ordinance.
Seattle Nightclub Owners Face Stricter Noise Ordinances (Mar. 27, 1999). The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports proposals to reinforce noise regulations for nightclubs in Seattle neighborhoods are not sitting well with a number of club owners.
Neighbors of Seattle's Nightclubs want Peace (Mar. 26, 1999). The Seattle Times reports as a result of increasing complaints, Seattle and Washington state regulators are considering new noise, alcohol and entertainment regulations that club owners fear could ruin their livelihood.
Raleigh Committee Endorses Less Stringent Noise Law; Neighborhood Activists Discuss Strategy to Defeat Ordinance (Mar. 24, 1999). The News and Observer reports a Raleigh City Council subcommittee Tuesday endorsed, on a split vote, a noise ordinance that would allow music-playing businesses in neighborhoods.
Virginia Beach Amphitheater Too Loud for Neighbors (Mar. 23, 1999). The Virginian-Pilot reports for the second time in as many years, GTE Virginia Beach Amphitheater officials have agreed to turn down the volume of summer concerts, but nearby residents say noise from the venue is still too loud.
Denver Councilman Calls for Greater Police Effort to Enforce City's Noise Laws (Mar. 20, 1999). The Denver Post reports a Denver city councilman is pushing for stricter enforcement of the city's noise ordinances.
City Council Panel Proposes Updated Noise Ordinance for Raleigh, NC (Mar. 17, 1999). The News and Observer (Raleigh, NC) reports a Raleigh, North Carolina, City Council subcommittee has drafted a new version of a much-questioned noise ordinance.
Penn. Town Passes Stiff Noise Ordinance to Preserve Quality of Life (Mar. 17, 1999). The Morning Call reports Bethlehem residents were heard Tuesday as the city council enacted one law to discourage noisy peace-breakers and started work on another to restrict BYOB clubs.
Illinois Waterway Agency Drafts Noise Ordinance that will Fine Noisy Boaters (Mar. 16, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports directors of a waterway in Illinois are planning to adopt an ordinance that will fine boaters for creating excessive noise.
Conn. Man Claims Hearing Loss after Concert, Sues for $15, 000 (Mar. 9, 1999). The Gazette (Montreal) reports a Connecticut man who attended a rock concert with his son in New Haven, Connecticut, is suing for damages, claming hearing loss.
Keep Your Music to Yourself; Colorado Town Teaches Lesson to Noise Scofflaws (Mar. 6, 1999). The Associated Press reports the town of Fort Lupton, Colorado, has devised a unique and effective penalty for those who violate the noise ordinance by blasting music from their cars.
Florida Residents Frustrated by Noise; City Council Says it's Powerless to Intervene (Mar. 4, 1999). The Sarasota Herald-Tribune reports Punta Gorda, Florida, residents who say they're disturbed by music from Fishermen's Village, a complex of bars, restaurants and shops, aren't getting any help from their city council.
NJ Town Votes on Noise Ordinance; Residents Want Law to Cover More Noise Sources (Mar. 3, 1999). The Morning Call reports the Bethlehem, New Jersey, City Council Tuesday rejected suggestions to create a broad noise ordinance in favor of passing an uncomplicated noise law that targets the most frequent offenders.
Palmetto, Florida, Looks to Remove Exemptions from Current Noise Ordinance (Mar. 2, 1999). The Sarasota Herald-Tribune reports spurred by noise from the Manatee County Fairgrounds, the Palmetto, Florida, City Council plans to tighten the town's noise ordinance, eliminating a number of exemptions.
Henderson, North Carolina, Establishes New Noise Ordinance using Sound Levels (Feb. 26, 1999). The Asheville Citizen-Times reports Henderson County, North Carolina, has adopted a new noise ordinance, effective July 1, 1999.
Noise from Stereos and Car Alarms Spur Penn. Town to Adopt New Noise Ordinance (Feb. 26, 1999). The Morning Call reports the City Council of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, is set to approve a new noise ordinance after residents complained of loud music and the noise from car alarms.
Annapolis, MD, Residents Want Ordinance to Protect Them Against Nighttime Noise Disturbances (Feb. 23, 1999). The Baltimore Sun reports Annapolis, Maryland, residents seek an ordinance that will provide them with peace and quiet during the night.
Bill in VT House Would Ban Personal Watercraft from Most Vermont Lakes (Feb. 23, 1999). The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports Jet Skis and other brands of the popular motorized water scooters may be banned on all but Vermont's four largest lakes.
Keep Your Music to Yourself; Florida County Adopts Noise Ordinance Aimed at Lowering the Volume of Boomboxes at the Beach (Feb. 23, 1999). The Orlando Sentinel Tribune published an editorial supporting the adoption of a noise ordinance to quell loud beach music in Volusia County, Florida.
Illinois Town Rejects Noise Ordinance as Too Broad and Restrictive (Feb. 22, 1999). The Chicago Tribune reports late last week, the village board of Winfield, Illinois, voted to reject a proposed noise ordinance that many residents argued was unnecessary and too broad.
Promoters of Minn. Amphitheater Look to Other Venues for Tips on How to be a Good Neighbor (Feb. 21, 1999). The Star Tribune reports in its bid to build an amphitheater, the Minnesota Orchestra has studied similar amphitheaters for ways to be a harmonious neighbor while achieving financial and artistic success. Topics included noise control and community relations.
Action Group Formed to Address Noise from Bars in Wellington, England (Feb. 20, 1999). The Evening Post (Wellington) reports tensions are mounting between inner-city residents and bar owners over complaints about loud music in Wellington, England.
Henderson, NC, Looks to Revise Noise Ordinance Draft by Increasing Allowable Noise Levels (Feb. 19, 1999). The Asheville Citizen-Times reports Henderson County, North Carolina, officials are considering relaxing their proposed noise ordinance by allowing increased noise levels and exempting businesses and industries.
Citizens' Group Takes on Noise in Albuquerque (Feb. 18, 1999). The Albuquerque Journal reports a citizens' group is working to update Albuquerque's noise laws.
Ontario Judge Rules Excessive Noise Violations Fall Under Criminal Code (Feb. 17, 1999). The London Free Press reports a man from Stratford, Ontario, with a history of disturbing his neighbors with loud music was fined $1,700 and prohibited from owning a stereo for the next two years.
California State Fair Wins Noise Suit; Bills Two Residents $3.3 Million for Legal Fees (Feb. 15, 1999). The Los Angeles Times reports two Costa Mesa, California, residents who lost a noise suit to the state-run Orange County Fair have been billed $3.3 million in legal fees for prolonging the suit.
Noise, the Not-So-Silent Danger, Causes Irreversible Hearing Loss for Millions in U.S. (Feb. 9, 1999). The Orlando Sentinel Tribune reports before Americans turn up the volume, they may want to consider how excessive sound can damage hearing.
Barberton, Ohio, Passes Noise Law Targeting Boomcars; Equipment and Vehicles May be Confiscated (Nov. 23, 1998). The Plain Dealer published an editorial urging readers to move to Barberton, Ohio, to get some peace and quiet now that the town has passed a law authorizing the confiscation of car stereo equipment and vehicles from repeated noise offenders.
Florida Pig Farmers Ordered to Turn Down Music (Nov. 21, 1998). The Stuart News/Port St. Lucie News reports golfers in Stuart, Florida, won the first court fight Friday against the pig farmers they say are disrupting them with blaring music the farmers say calm their animals.
Annapolis, MD, Officials Draft Enforceable Noise Law (Nov. 20, 1998). The Capital reports officials in Annapolis, Maryland, are revising their noise laws to make them easier for police to enforce.
North Carolina County to Create Noise Ordinance Before Allowing New Racetrack (Nov. 19, 1998). The Asheville Citizen-Times reports Henderson County Commissioners on Wednesday considered a first draft of a noise ordinance they will finalize before lifting a moratorium on the construction of any racetracks in the North Carolina county.
Noise Ordinance in Bristol, RI, Challenged and Repealed for Being Too Broad and Vague (Nov. 18, 1998). The Associated Press State & Local Wire reports the town of Bristol, RI, has agreed to repeal a noise ordinance that was challenged in a lawsuit filed by the American Civil Liberties of Rhode Island.
Virginia Beach Amphitheater Successful, but Neighborhoods Want Their Quiet (Nov. 18, 1998). The Virginian-Pilot reports while concerts at the GTE Virginia Beach Amphitheater bring welcome revenue to the town, they also blast unwanted noise to surrounding neighborhoods, making for a mixed review.
Ohio City Council Considers Increasing Fines for Violators of Noise Law (Nov. 17, 1998). The State Journal Register reports the Springfield, Ohio, City Council is considering increasing fines for violators of noise law.
Growth Brings Noise to Ohio Township, Including Din from Church Gatherings (Nov. 14, 1998). The Cincinnati Enquirer reports officials and residents of Hamilton Township, Ohio, are considering the merits of a noise ordinance in the wake of complaints about late-night noise from teen gatherings at a local church.
Outdoor Amplified Music Banned on Public Property in Stuart, Florida (Nov. 12, 1998). The Stuart News/Port St. Lucie News reports a resident's complaints about noise has stopped the outdoor Sunday music in Stuart, Florida. Restaurant owners say the city's order has foiled their means of drawing business into downtown on Sundays.
Town in Washington Adopts Noise Ordinance After Hearing Complaints about Car Stereos (Oct. 15, 1998). The Seattle Times reports the Woodinville, Washington, City Council has adopted a noise ordinance after receiving numerous noise complaints from citizens about loud car stereos.
Florida's Martin County Enacts Noise Ordinance (Oct. 14, 1998). The Stuart News/Port St. Lucie News reports many residents of Stuart, Florida, are pleased with new noise restrictions adopted by the commissioners of Martin County.
Outdoor Entertainer in Bath, England, Banned after Residents Complain of Noise (Oct. 14, 1998). The Western Daily Press reports a popular outdoor entertainer in Bath, England, recently received a citation for disturbing the peace.
Making Noise Laws Clear in Moorpark, California (Oct. 12, 1998). The Ventura County Star published an article about noise written by the Senior Deputy of the Moorpark, California. The law enforcement officer, Kory Martinelli, seeks to clear up some misconceptions about noise nuisances and the law.
Noise Sources and Solutions in Washington, DC, Area Neighborhoods (Oct. 10, 1998). The Washington Post reports that while noise may be an unavoidable part of apartment life in the Washington, DC, area, as it is elsewhere, developers, property managers, and tenants themselves can take steps to muffle their problems.
European Study Shows City Noise Leads to Serious Ill Health Effects (Oct. 9, 1998). The Evening Standard reports Londoners were warned today that big city noise may be responsible for heart disease.
Residents Demand Formal Oversight at California's Universal Studios, Citing Existing and Projected Noise Problems (Oct. 8, 1998). The Hollywood Reporter reports the Los Angeles County Regional Planning Commission voted to recommend noise restrictions at Universal Studios in an effort to balance importance of film industry with noise concerns of residents.
Noisy and Uncivil Neighbors in Los Angeles (Oct. 7, 1998). Los Angeles Times published the following editorial opinions in response to the October 1 article, which discussed private party noise in residential areas of Los Angeles.
Proposed Legislation Requires $300 Fine for Noisy Car Stereos and Car Alarms in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania (Oct. 6, 1998). The Morning Call reports that Bethlehem Mayor Don Cunningham will propose amending the existing noise ordinance. The proposed amendment levies fines up to $300 for booming car stereos and deafening car alarms.
Editorial Praises Chicago's Ordinance Outlawing Loud, Annoying Car Stereos (Oct. 4, 1998). The Chicago Tribune published the following editorial praising Chicago's ordinance that outlaws loud, annoying music from car stereos.
California Town Seeks to Set New Noise Standards (Oct. 1, 1998). The Press-Enterprise reports the town of Norco, California, is considering adopting operating standards that would restrict noise from a nightclub and an amusement center to a specific level of decibels.
Police Called Repeatedly to Enforce Peace and Quiet in Los Angeles (Oct. 1, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports the calls pour in all night long to California's downtown Los Angeles police communications center from Angelenos desperate for a little peace and quiet.
Chicago Alderman Seeks to Soften City's Noise Ordinance, Claiming Ban on Loud Car Music Hurts Retailers (Sep. 30, 1998). The Chicago Tribune reports a Chicago, Illinois, City Alderman has introduced an initiative to amend the city's 1996 ordinance that bans loud music in cars. Opponents of the current noise ordinance say it hurts business at car-audio retailers.
Florida Town Adopts New Noise Ordinance (Sep. 24, 1998). The Orlando Sentinel Tribune reports city council members in Mascotte, Florida, hope to maintain peace and quiet in their community with the recent passage of an anti- noise ordinance.
Indianapolis Resident Says Police Unwilling to Enforce Noise Ordinances Downtown (Sep. 23, 1998). The Indianapolis Star published the following letter from Arthur J. Usher IV, an Indianapolis, Indiana, resident. Usher contends the city police are unwilling to enforce noise ordinances, making living in the city practically unbearable. Usher wrote:
Noise Complaints Rise as Tolerance for Noise Decreases in English Town (Sep. 23, 1998). The Grimsby Evening Telegraph reports noise pollution is becoming an increasing problem in East Lindsey, England, as residents become less tolerant of certain kinds of noise.
Plan to Move Concert Stage Only Moves the Noise, Doesn't Solve Problem, Say Calgary, Alberta, Residents (Sep. 17, 1998). The Calgary Herald reports some Calgary, Alberta, residents believe a proposed permanent stage at the west end of Prince's Island Park would only direct noise away from one location and bother residents in another area.
Richmond, British Columbia, Establishes Restrictions for "Raves" after Neighbors in Vancouver Complain (Sep. 17, 1998). The Vancouver Sun reports after numerous complaints about noise from a recent rave party in Richmond, British Columbia, town officials adopt restrictions.
Noise Complaints in the United Kingdom Decreasing (Sep. 16, 1998). The Birmingham Evening Mail reports environmental health officers in the United Kingdom announced the public may be becoming more tolerant of noisy neighbors.
Tourists Don't Like Noise, Say Business Owners who want Tough Noise Laws in Bar Harbor, Maine (Sep. 16, 1998). The Bangor Daily News reports several Bar Harbor, Maine, residents and business owners say the town is too noisy.
Virginia Beach Hires Consultant to Reduce Noise from Amphitheater (Sep. 16, 1998). The Virginian-Pilot reports Virginia Beach's City Council decided to hire a consultant to investigate ways to reduce the noise levels from the GTE Virginia Beach Amphitheater.
Town Council in England will Investigate Ways to Reduce Excessive Noise from Music Festival after Residents Complain (Sep. 12, 1998). The Evening Herald reports the Plymouth, England, City Council is determined to address the issue of excessive noise from a free festival in 1999 after complaints about this year's event.
Editorial Calls on Florida Commissioners to Use Existing Laws to Quiet Raves (Sep. 10, 1998). The St. Petersburg Times published an editorial in which the author takes exception to Florida county commissioner Pat Mulieri's request to ban late-night outdoor dance concerts known as raves.
Neighbors Complain about Nightclub Noise, Legal Action May Lead to Florida Club Shutdown (Sep. 10, 1998). The Sarasota Herald-Tribune reports authorities could start procedures to close a nightclub in Sarasota, Florida, after neighbors charge the club violated a noise agreement.
Court Case: NYC Nightclub Loses in Challenge to Charges of Excessive Noise Violations (Sep. 10, 1998). The New York Law Journal reports a case in which a nightclub failed in its challenge to charges of excessive noise violations. The summary, text, and discussion of the case follows:
Seekonk, Mass., Adopts New Anti-Noise Regulations (Sep. 9, 1998). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports new anti- noise regulation are included among a package of local bylaws in Seekonk, Massachusetts, just given approval by the attorney general's office.
Florida Commissioner Asks for Review of County's Ordinances After All-Night Concert Sparks Noise Complaints (Sep. 9, 1998). The St. Petersburg Times reports last weekend's all-night "rave" party in Pasco, Florida, was noisy enough to prompt one county commissioner to seek a change in the way the county permits such events.
Florida Town Considers Banning All-Night Concerts After Noise Complaints (Sep. 9, 1998). The Tampa Tribune reports Pasco, Florida, is considering a ban on all-night outdoor music shows after a recent event resulted in dozens of drug arrests and noise complaints.
Resident is Heavily Fined in England for Noise Disturbances (Sep. 8, 1998). The Nottingham Evening Post reports Richard Ramsey of Nottingham, England, has been fined for two breaches of a noise abatement notice.
Pilots' Strike Brings Some Quiet to Noisy World of Minneapolis, Minnesota (Sep. 8, 1998). The Star Tribune reports an unintended consequence of the pilots' strike against Northwest Airlines: natural quiet beneath the airport flight paths in Minneapolis, Minnesota
English Resident Breaks Noise Laws; Town Destroys Stereo to Deter Future Violators (Sep. 5, 1998). The Daily Telegraph reports a residents' music system was demolished in public in Grantham, England, as a warning to those who persistently defy noise laws.
Texas Town Rejects Amphitheater, Noise and Preservation of Park Land Drive Decision (Sep. 5, 1998). The Dallas Morning News reports Bedford, Texas, City Council members say a Park Board recommendation may prevent the chance for an amphitheater on city park land.
Who Should Enforce Noise Rules at a Florida Condominium Complex? (Sep. 5, 1998). The Tampa Tribune published the following question from F.P., a resident of Seminole, Florida, who wonders who should enforce noise rules at a condominium complex. F.P. wrote:
Knoxville, Tennessee City Council Finds it Difficult to Please Everyone with Noise Ordinance (Sep. 4, 1998). The Knoxville News-Sentinel reports Tennessee's Knoxville City Council is working hard to establish enforceable noise regulations that will please business owners and residents.
New Orleans Enacts Noise Buffer Zone for Cathedral during Services (Sep. 4, 1998). The Times-Picayune reports the New Orleans City Council on Thursday placed limits on noise levels around a city cathedral during religious services after a lengthy dispute between the church and street musicians.
Police Crackdown on Street Noise in Santa Ana, California (Aug. 19, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports that police in Santa Ana, California may begin fining repeat noise offenders or even confiscating their amplifiers.
Community Policing Effort Reduces Traffic Noise in Fall River, Massachusetts (Aug. 18, 1998). The Providence Journal-Bulletin describes a community policing effort to eradicate blaring car stereos, loud mufflers, roaring motorcycles, and other traffic nuisances from a cruising strip in Fall River, Massachusetts.
Mayor Assigns Two Additional Police Officers to Buttress Enforcement of Noise Ordinance in Providence, Rhode Island (Aug. 14, 1998). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that Mayor Vincent A. Cianci Jr. has decided to assign two additional police officers to downtown Providence to buttress enforcement of the city's noise ordinance.
Residents Distressed by Outdoor Dinner Parties Decide to Take Action (Aug. 14, 1998). Calgary Herald reports that a group of residents are upset about the late-night noise emulating from the Cross House Garden Café in Calgary, British Columbia. They say the outdoor parties are ruining the quiet tranquility of the community and are circulating a petition that requests the city to withhold permission for the garden tents to go up each summer.
Newport, Maine Adopts a Prohibition on Amplified Entertainment (Aug. 13, 1998). Providence Journal-Bulletin reports that Newport's City Council has adopted an amendment to its existing noise ordinance to prohibit amplified entertainment after 8 p.m.
City Council in Port Allen, Louisiana Votes Unanimously to Modify Noise Ordinance (Aug. 13, 1998). The Port Allen Advocate announced the city council's unanimous vote to revise the city's noise ordinance. The revised ordinance is an effort to reduce the loud "boom box" music and is fashioned to allow the chief of police more discretion in writing citations.
City in East China Reduces Noise, Can Hear Birds Sing (Aug. 12, 1998). China Daily reports noise control measures have been used to reduce noise in Yantai, a coastal city in East China's Shandong Province. Cars are forbidden to blow their horns in the urban districts and no sirens are allowed to sound. Broadcasting music and advertisements outdoors has also been forbidden in commercial areas since June 1.
Editorial: Loud Stereos are a Problem in Amherst, New York (Aug. 11, 1998). The Buffalo News published the following letter regarding multidecibel audio-assault vehicles. The editorialist says Amherst, New York needs to draft a new noise ordinance, use a decimeter to track noise levels, and start issuing tickets.
Commetary Says Stricter Rules Justified for Noise Reduction in Addis Ababa (Aug. 11, 1998). The Monitor published an editorial advocating the new strict noise regulations in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The writer believes it's better to enforce controls now before the city becomes hopelessly polluted.
Madison Imposes Restrictions in Stadium Area After Residents Complain of Noise (Aug. 10, 1998). The Capital Times reports new, tougher rules in Madison, Wisconsin, will limit hours for outdoor beer gardens during this season's University of Wisconsin football games.
Police Officers Crack Down on Noise Violators at Point Pleasant Beach in New Jersey (Aug. 10, 1998). The Asbury Park Press reports that Point Pleasant Beach has issued a new noise ordinance that stipulates how much noise is acceptable. Persons who exceed the limits can be issued summonses.
ACLU Says Noise Ordinance in Bristol, RI, Violates First Amendment, Files Lawsuit (Aug. 6, 1998). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports the ACLU of Rhode Island has filed a federal lawsuit charging that the town of Bristol's noise ordinance violates the First Amendment.
Penn. Residents Want Noise Ordinance Enforced at Club in Neighboring Town (Aug. 6, 1998). The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports residents of one Pennsylvania town are bothered by noise coming from a club just over the line in a nearby town. Forest Hills residents are pushing for Wilkinsburg to enforce its own noise ordinances.
Maine Residents Object to Noise from Salvation Army's New 1,421 Seat Pavilion (Aug. 5, 1998). The Portland Press Herald reports on opening night of The Salvation Army's new pavilion in Old Orchard Beach, the noise was already too loud for neighbors. The group received a summons from police to appear in court for violating the town's noise ordinance.
Mayor in Pontiac, Illinois Must Decide Whether Bar Violated City's Liquor Code When Its Loud Music Disturbed Next-door Neighbors (Aug. 5, 1998). The Pantagraph reports that the mayor of Pontiac, Illinois will decide whether a local bar violated the city's noise ordinance when it played loud music disturbing its neighbors.
Editorialist Decides Ice Cream Truck Noise Permissible in Spite of Its Extreme Annoyance to Young Parents (Aug. 5, 1998). The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette published the following editorial in which the editorialist imagines the enforcement of Pittsburgh's new noise ordinance against ice cream trucks in the suburbs. The editorialist resolves that ice cream truck noise should be tolerated despite its extreme annoyance to parents of young children.
Florida County Drops Grandfathering Clause in Proposed Noise Ordinance (Aug. 5, 1998). The Stuart News/Port St. Lucie News reports Martin County, Florida's, proposed noise rules could cost some businesses thousands of dollars to be in compliance.
Not all Agree 'the Louder the Better' as Decibel Levels Rise in U.S. Films (Aug. 5, 1998). USA Today reports movies in the United States sound louder these days because they are being recorded louder, say industry insiders. Movie goers' responses to the pumped up volume vary.
Resident Questions Fairness of Noise Ordinance in Montgomery, Alabama (Aug. 3, 1998). The Montgomery Advertiser published the following letter from Hal Johnson of Montgomery, Alabama. The letter criticizes Montgomery's noise ordinance. Johnson wrote:
New Mexico Town Considers Exempting Ice Cream Trucks From Noise Ordinance (Jul. 29, 1998). The Albuquerque Journal reports that the Village Council in Corrales, New Mexico will consider amending its noise ordinance to exempt ice cream truck vendors. The article says the council voted unanimously Tuesday to consider the issue next month.
Columnist Says Ice Cream Trucks Shouldn't be Banned (Jul. 27, 1998). The Detroit News printed an editorial in which the columnist says ice cream trucks should not be banned. He goes on to list the objections to ice cream trucks brought by many baby boomer parents, including the trucks' potential for accidents, the possibility that the trucks may be driven by pedophiles, and the trucks' noise. The columnist argues against all of these objections.
Kentucky Newspaper Reader Asks Columnist to Get Rid of Loud Music in Neighborhood (Jul. 27, 1998). The Courier-Journal printed a column in which a resident of Louisville, Kentucky wrote in to say that two garages in the neighborhood have become music halls for practicing bands. The resident asked the columnist to find out what can be done about the constant noise. The columnist responded by asking police officers to monitor the neighborhood, but police heard excessive noise on only one occasion. The columnist tells the reader to call the police when the music being played.
The Devastating Effects of Noise Pollution and Some Ways to Ease its Impact (Jul. 27, 1998). Time Magazine reports noise pollution is increasing across Europe. While noise can damage health and destroy peace of mind, there are ways to lessen its impact.
Columnist Argues Pittsburgh Decibel Limit Should Be Lowered, But Questions Whether Lower Limit Can Be Enforced (Jul. 26, 1998). The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette printed an editorial that says a proposal in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania to lower the permitted decibel limit is probably a good one. But, the editorial argues, it is difficult to imagine enough police enforcement to truly do away with noise pollution.
Florida Town Passes New Noise Restrictions After Making Concessions to Resort and Bar Owners (Jul. 26, 1998). The St. Petersburg Times reports that the City Commission in St. Petersburg Beach, Florida unanimously approved changes to its noise ordinance last week after weakening the proposed rules in a concession to hotel owners. The article says that eight large resort owners had opposed the changes to the noise rules. But, Tuesday, hotel managers said the noise ordinance approved by the Commission would benefit both frustrated residents and hotel guests.
Officials and Residents Say Alabama City is Quieter Since Crackdown on Car Boom Boxes (Jul. 26, 1998). The Montgomery Advertiser reports that residents and officials in Montgomery, Alabama say that since the Montgomery City Council called for aggressive enforcement of the noise ordinance and raised the minimum fine for violations in 1996, noise from loud car stereos has decreased.
Loud Movie Noise Levels is Becoming a Problem for Theater Owners (Jul. 24, 1998). The Stuart News/Port St. Lucie News reports that movies have been getting louder in recent years, and the issue is getting attention from theater owners, stereo industry representatives, and audiologists. The National Association of Theater Owners, for example, has formed a task force of theater executives and sound engineers to determine how loud is too loud for movies.
Police in New York Town Crack Down on Loud Car Stereos (Jul. 24, 1998). The Buffalo News reports that police in Jamestown, New York have started to crack down on loud car stereos recently, after a new noise ordinance was passed by the City Council earlier this year. The article goes on to describe a citation that was issued by a police officer for a loud car stereo on Wednesday.
Columnist Ridicules Noise Rules Governing Canadian Folk Fest (Jul. 22, 1998). The Calgary Sun printed an editorial that ridicules the noise rules governing the upcoming Calgary Folk Music Festival on Prince's Island in Calgary, Alberta. The columnist says the folk festival is singled out by residents in upscale neighborhoods, who have made local officials impose unnecessarily stringent regulations.
Pittsburgh City Council Considers Lowering Decibel Limit for Car Stereos (Jul. 22, 1998). The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that the City Council in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania will consider an ordinance Wednesday that would lower the lawful noise level for car stereos from 85 decibels to 68 decibels, the level used in New York City. The proposal would allow police to impound cars after a second citation.
Colorado City Steps Up Enforcement of Noise Ordinance (Jul. 20, 1998). The Denver Post reports that police in Aurora, Colorado have stepped up enforcement of the city's noise ordinance that passed in 1995, responding to residents' complaints. The article says residents were warned with an insert in their water bills this month to keep the noise down.
New York Island Community Passes Strict Noise Ordinance Among Some Controversy (Jul. 19, 1998). Newsday reports that the Town Board in Shelter Island, New York unanimously approved a strict noise ordinance on June 19. The article notes that the town was split on the issue, with two opposing petitions collecting almost an equal number of signatures.
"Dear Abby" Column Says Communities Have Banned Ice Cream Truck Noise, But Insists Trucks are Still a Great Old Tradition (Jul. 18, 1998). The Charleston Daily Mail printed a "Dear Abby" column in which a reader wrote in describing the offensive nature of the music coming from new ice-cream trucks. Abby responded that many communities have banded together to restrict noise from ice-cream trucks, but she also printed letters from other readers who said ice-cream trucks bring back great memories.
Louisiana Noise Activist's Property is Firebombed for the Third Time (Jul. 18, 1998). The Times-Picayune reports that a servant's quarters building behind the home of Stuart Smith, an activist who has demanded a crackdown on noisy bars in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana, was set fire to on Friday about 5 a.m. Smith said this is the third firebombing of his property in what he believes is a campaign of intimidation for his activism.
Judge Lifts Some Noise Restrictions at California Amphitheater (Jul. 17, 1998). The Orange County Register reports that a Superior Court judge in Costa Mesa, California ruled Thursday that some noise restrictions must be lifted at the 18,500-seat Pacific Amphitheatre at the Orange County Fairgrounds. But, the article notes, the judge ruled that a restriction limiting decibel levels at the edge of the amphitheater can remain in place.
New Mexico County Passes Noise Ordinance (Jul. 17, 1998). The Albuquerque Journal reports that Grant County Commissioners in Silver City, New Mexico approved a noise ordinance Tuesday that took effect immediately.
Residents Near California Amphitheater Worry About Judge's Ruling Eliminating Some Noise Restrictions (Jul. 17, 1998). The Orange County Register reports that residents living near the Pacific Amphitheatre in Costa Mesa, California are afraid that a Superior Court judge's ruling Thursday that lifted some noise restrictions at the concert venue will result in unbearable noise. The article notes that the judge's ruling eliminated residents' control over the site's sound covenant.
California Judge Strikes Down Strict Noise Restrictions at Amphitheater (Jul. 16, 1998). The City News Service reports that Orange County Superior Court judge Robert Thomas today struck down strict noise restrictions at the Pacific Amphitheatre in Costa Mesa, California. The article explains that the parties in the lawsuit were the Orange County Fair and Exposition Center, which owns the amphitheater, the Nederlander Organization, which sold the amphitheater to the fair, and homeowners living nearby. The article notes that the judge set a subsequent hearing for August 21 to determine the exact language of the final document which will accompany the ruling.
D.C. Residents Try to Shut Down Noisy and Dangerous Nightclub (Jul. 16, 1998). The Washington Post reports that residents in Washington, D.C. are trying to shut down the Palace nightclub, in the 300 block of Kennedy Street NW. Residents living near the club say the club is noisy, creates traffic problems, and most of all, is dangerous to the surrounding community. A shoot-out outside the club occurred Sunday, and a stabbing occurred in April. On Tuesday, about 24 local residents demonstrated outside the club, calling for its closure. The article explains that a recently passed law, the Suspension of Liquor Licenses Amendment Act, may help residents in their fight, because it allows the alcohol licenses of establishments to be suspended when violence in or near the club endangers the community or the police.
New York Town Police Train More Police to Use Decibel Meters, Increasing Enforcement of Noise Law (Jul. 16, 1998). Newsday reports that the city of Long Beach, New York has doubled the number of police officers qualified to use decibel meters in order to enforce the city's noise ordinance. City officials said the noise ordinance and the decibel meter training has resulted in a less noisy community.
Two Loud Virginia Amphitheater Concerts Anger Residents (Jul. 11, 1998). The Virginian-Pilot reports that a pair of rock concerts at GTE Virginia Beach Amphitheater in Virginia Beach, Virginia have resulted in the heaviest noise complaints this season about the amphitheater. City officials and representatives of Cellar Door, a company that operates the amphitheater, will meet Monday to again discuss ways of keeping the noise down, the article says.
NJ Resident Cited for Noise; Neighbors Say Police Acted Too Slowly (Jul. 7, 1998). The Record reports although police issued a ticket to the hostess of a noisy Fourth of July reggae party on Saturday night, angry neighbors say the officers acted too late to save their holiday from being ruined by loud music and crowds of people overflowing onto the street.
Weston, Florida, Gets Serious About Enforcing Quiet (Jul. 7, 1998). The Sun-Sentinel reports several residents of Weston, Florida, urged the City Commission to approve a code limiting "loud and raucous noise." The noise code was unanimously approved.
Court of Appeal Will Hear Challenge of Noise Abatement Notice Served to English Pub (Jul. 7, 1998). The Lawyer reports a Gosport, England, pub is at the center of a pending test case over procedures to be followed by courts dealing with complaints of noise nuisance.
Communities in the Buffalo, New York, Area Draft Noise Ordinance with Car Stereos in Mind (Jul. 6, 1998). The Buffalo News reports New York's Erie County Sheriff's Department and other area police agencies are trying to crackdown on drivers who blast high-powered car stereos.
San Francisco Supervisor Proposes Entertainment District after Residents Make Noise Complaints (Jul. 2, 1998). The San Francisco Chronicle reports San Francisco's Supervisor Gavin Newsom is proposing the city create an entertainment district to balance needs of clubs and residents in the South of Market section of the city.
City in Scotland Publishes Guide for Residents with Noise Problems (Jul. 1, 1998). The Aberdeen Press and Journal reports the City Council of Aberdeen, Scotland, is addressing the growing noise pollution problem by publishing noise reduction guidelines for residents.
Sounds of Silence Rare in North Lincolnshire, England; Noise Complaints Increase (Jul. 1, 1998). The Scunthorpe Evening Telegraph reports complaints about noise pollution are on the rise in the English towns of North Lincolnshire. But the Health and Public Protection Committee can help residents bothered by noise.
Calif. County Court to Decide Volume Level at Pacific Amphitheater (Jun. 29, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports that the Pacific Amphitheater at Orange County, California's fairgrounds is still a source of tension, even now that a noise lawsuit is over.
Jacksonville Considering New Enforceable Noise Laws (Jun. 27, 1998). The State Journal Register reports the city of Jacksonville, Florida, is looking at a new proposal to restrict noise in neighborhoods.
Florida's Martin County Strives to Write Enforceable Noise Ordinance (Jun. 24, 1998). The Stuart News/Port St. Lucie News reports commissioners in Martin County, Florida, are working to develop a constitutionally sound ordinance to control noise nuisances.
Resident Says Noise Ruins Lives in English Town (Jun. 23, 1998). The Gloucestershire Echo published the following letter to the editor about the ill effects of noise from a resident of High Street, Cheltenham, England:
Excemption to City's Noise Bylaws Granted for Calgary Folk Festival; Appeal Made by Community Association is Defeated (Jun. 19, 1998). The Calgary Herald reports that the city's chief bylaw enforcement officer, Earl MacLeod, granted a temporary exemption to the city's noise bylaw permitting Calgary Folk Festival to play music until 11 p.m. on Friday, July 24 and Saturday, July 25. On Thursday, July 23 and Sunday 26, the music must shut down at 10 p.m.
City Councilman and Neighbor Want Music from Noisy Ice Cream Truck Either Turned Down or Eliminated in Warren, Michigan (Jun. 17, 1998). The Detroit News reports that the amplified music from boom box ice cream vendors peddling neighborhoods has mother, Diane Biskner, and Warren Councilman, Cecil St. Pierre, pushing for a new noise ordinance in Warren, Michigan.
Speedway Expansion Challenged by Residents' Group in Loudon, New Hampshire (Jun. 17, 1998). The Union Leader reports that the New Hampshire International Speedway (NHIS) track in Loudon, New Hampshire admitted in court that it built more seats than permitted by the Loudon Planning Board. A citizens' group opposed to the expansion are taking legal action.
City Councilors Angered at Limited Penalty Fees Required of Noise Nuisance Neighbor in Gloucester, England (Jun. 16, 1998). The Gloucester Citizen reports that angry city councilors agreed to explore new measures for dealing with people who create a noise nuisance.
Canadian Folk Festival Music Permit is Appealed by Residents Who Want No Late-Night Music (Jun. 12, 1998). The Calgary Herald reports that residents in the Hillhurst-Sunnyside area of Calgary, Alberta are appealing a festival permit of the Calgary Folk Festival that allows musicians to perform after 10 p.m. on two nights next month at Prince's Island Park, a festival site. The article says that the city waived its own noise bylaw to allow the music to play until 11 p.m. on Friday, July 24 and Saturday, July 25. The appeal will be heard before the city's license appeal board next Thursday, the article notes.
Florida's Sleep Deprived Residents in Ocean Ridge Complain about Restaurant's Amplified Music; Restaurant Owners Say They Will Conduct Self-Monitoring of Noise Levels (Jun. 12, 1998). The Sun-Sentinel reports that residents living at Ocean Ridge complain they have gotten little sleep for the last 1 1/2 years due to the amplified music that plays at the Banana Boat Restaurant located across from the Intracoastal Waterway in Boynton Beach. Restaurant owners, Tom Blum and John Therien, are looking into the issue and have said they will monitor the noise levels when bands play Thursday through Sunday evenings.
Residents Hope Noise Ordinance Will Be Unaffected by Judicial Hearing in Orange County, California (Jun. 10, 1998). Orange County Register reports that residents are worried about the $16 million settlement won by the Orange County Fair in a dispute over its purchase of the Pacific Amphitheater.
Judge to Rule on Sound Limits at Pacific Amphitheater in Orange County, California (Jun. 10, 1998). The Orange County Register reports that Judge Robert E. Thomas is scheduled to rule on the validity of Orange County's noise restrictions at a hearing June 30. The ruling will be made in relation to Pacific Amphitheater, a 18,500-seat venue owned by the Orange County Fair.
Florida City Tightens Nighttime Noise Ordinance to Deal With Noisy Bars (Jun. 7, 1998). The St. Petersburg Times reports that the City Commission in St. Petersburg Beach, Florida voted unanimously last week to toughen rules restricting nighttime noise. The ordinance changes were prompted by residents' complaints about noisy bars. The new ordinance is scheduled for final approval at the commission's June 16 meeting.
Residents Object to New Nightclub in Scotland, But City Recommends Approval (Jun. 6, 1998). The Aberdeen Press and Journal reports residents in Aberdeen, Scotland are protesting a bid to convert the Q Brasserie on Alford Place from a restaurant into a nightclub. Residents say there already are many nightclubs in the area, and another one would only increase the levels of late-night noise and disturbances. But, the article says, Peter Cockhead, the city's planning and strategic development director, has recommended that the change be allowed. The planning (development control) committee will consider the application next Thursday.
Texas City Settles Lawsuit With Nightclubs Suing to Overturn Noise Ordinance (Jun. 6, 1998). The Austin American-Statesman reports that officials with the City of Austin, Texas have settled a lawsuit with the East Sixth Street Community Association and 10 nightclubs that had sued to overturn the city's noise ordinance. The article explains that the noise ordinance will stay in effect, but police will adopt new methods and use new equipment to measure the noise coming from nightclubs.
Illinois Town Considers New Ordinance to Limit Noise (Jun. 5, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that trustees in Winfield, Illinois considered a draft noise ordinance Thursday that would levy fines for "excessive, unnecessary or unusually loud noise." According to village officials, the ordinance was drawn up in response to people complaining about noisy pets.
Scottish Hotel Owner Threatens Neighbors With More Noise After They Object to Hotel's Extended Hours (Jun. 4, 1998). The Aberdeen Press and Journal reports that a hotel owner in Ballater, Scotland threatened neighbors with loud music after the neighbors objected to plans to extend the hours of operation of the hotel. The Aberdeenshire (South) licensing board yesterday approved the hotel owner's application for extended hours for six months, on the understanding that the owner seeks advice from Aberdeenshire Council's environmental health department on noise control.
Church Official Visits California Neighborhood During Church Service to Experience Noise Level (Jun. 2, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports that to determine how loud church services at the Christ Our Redeemer AME Church were, the vice president from Orange County's Interfaith Council stood outside for much of the service last Sunday. Residents said that the congregation was being quieter than usual because they knew that people were listening, but the council representative concluded that closing the doors seemed to contain the sound.
California Neighbors Fight Church Over Noisy Services (Jun. 1, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports that in Costa Mesa, California, residents have pushed city officials to implement noise restrictions on a particularly noisy church. The building, which is used by Christ Our Redeemer African Methodist Episcopal Church as (COR-AME) well as the United Pentecostal Church, must keep its doors closed, minimize amplification, and avoid congregating in the parking lot. The Pentecostal Church will comply, but the other church has said it will continue its services as they have been conducted.
Florida City Starts Ticketing Motorists With Loud Car Stereos After Court Ruling (May 30, 1998). The Palm Beach Post reports that police in Port St. Lucie, Florida have started to issue tickets to motorists with loud car stereos, after an appeals court ruling upheld a state noise law earlier this month. The article says that police can issue tickets if car stereos can be heard more than 100 feet away.
Canadian Accordian Player Refuses to Lower the Volume at his Outdoor Performances (May 27, 1998). The Toronto Star reports that an accordion player in Bronte, Ontario has been asked by residents and police to lower the volume at his outdoor concerts at Bronte Harbor, just across from the Lakeside Marketeria on Bronte Road, and move to a new location. But the musician refuses to accommodate the requests. Police say they may ask a judge to impose restrictions on the musician's entertainment.
Ice Cream Trucks Get Increasing Criticism Around the Country (May 27, 1998). The Telegraph Herald reports that ice cream trucks are facing a growing list of communities where they are not welcome. The trucks have been blamed for noise pollution, poor nutrition, traffic hazards, and attracting pedophiles as drivers, and laws restricting ice cream truck operations have sprouted around the country. The article goes on to focus on one ice cream truck operator who runs trucks on the Massachusetts - Rhode Island border.
Nostalgic Ice Cream Trucks Considered a Dangerous Nuisance in Cites throughout the United States (May 27, 1998). The Pantagraph publishes an article discussing the variety of laws and restrictions on ice cream trucks that have popped up across the county.
Police in Ohio Town Step Up Campaign to Eliminate Loud Car Stereos (May 21, 1998). The Dayton Daily News reports that police in New Lebanon, Ohio have instituted a strict campaign to reduce loud car stereo noise, after receiving numerous resident complaints on the issue. The article notes that New Lebanon already has an ordinance that prohibits the use of car stereos that disrupt the comfort and peace of residents.
County Board Reduces Noise Restrictions to Allow Second Amphitheater Near Omaha (May 20, 1998). The World-Heraldwriter of Omaha, Nebraska, reports plans are moving forward for Omaha's second major open-air amphitheater after the county board reduced restrictions despite residents' noise concerns. The new facility will test the Omaha area's ability to support large open-air entertainment events.
Florida County Commission Sues Nightclub to Reduce Noise (May 20, 1998). The Sarasota Herald-Tribune reports the Manatee County Commission will sue a nightclub to force it to lower the noise level after residents lodged complaints.
Texas Residents Complain About Noise from Rock Concert (May 20, 1998). The Dallas Morning News reports that residents in Arlington, Texas complained about excessive noise and obscenity during the first paid concert Sunday at the ballpark in the Arlington amphitheater. The event featured 10 bands, drew almost 30,000 fans, and produced music that could be heard up to three miles away. The article says that some residents asked City Council members at a Tuesday meeting to not allow such events at the amphitheater again.
Baltimore City Council Discusses Bill to Ban Amplifiers in Lexington Market (May 19, 1998). The Baltimore Sun reports the Baltimore City Council introduced a bill yesterday to ban the use of amplifiers in the Lexington Market area after merchants complained.
Village Board Reprimands Inn for Noise (May 19, 1998). The Buffalo News reports the Lewiston, New York, Village Board Monday publicly admonished the general manager of a local inn for its noise levels and failure to be a good neighbor.
NY Resident Says Noise Makers Should Pay (May 17, 1998). The New York Times published the following letter to the editor from Marcia H. Lemmon of New York City's Lower East Side. Ms. Lemmon's letter addresses who should take responsibility for noise and the ensuing costs of soundproofing. She is the chairwoman of the Ludlow Block Association.
Go-Cart Track Upsets Residents in Louisiana Subdivision (May 16, 1998). The Times-Picayune reports a proposed go-cart track at Mandeville, Louisiana, miniature golf course has residents worried about noise.
Sante Fe, NM, Lounge Agrees to Noise Restrictions (May 15, 1998). The Albuquerque Journal reports Santa Fe, New Mexico, city councilors on Wednesday adopted an agreement between the city and El Farol Restaurant & Lounge, ending a lengthy noise dispute with the nightclub.
Illinois Town Seeks to Clear Up Vagueness in Noise & Entertainment Zoning Rules (May 14, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports in an effort to clarify rules that govern licensed entertainment establishments, officials in Schaumburg, Illinois, proposed changes to sections of the village's zoning code that regulates entertainment and noise.
Ohio City Limits Noise from Ice Cream Trucks (May 14, 1998). The Plain Dealer reports there's a new law in Medina, Ohio, that restricts ice cream trucks from playing loud music.
Sante Fe Business Can Keep Live Music; Must Follow City's Noise Ordinance (May 14, 1998). The Santa Fe New Mexican reports an agreement between the Santa Fe City Council and a local business means the lounge will continue to offer live amplified music, but hours for live performances will be limited.
Calgary Bylaws Prevent New Noisy Businesses (May 12, 1998). The Calgary Herald in Alberta, Canada, reports the city's council approved new bylaws to regulate noise from bars and restaurants near residential areas. The article goes on to point out that the new bylaws don't govern existing facilities.
Florida Pig Farmer Says Noise Laws will Harm Business (May 12, 1998). The Stuart News/Port St. Lucie News reports Martin County officials will hold a public hearing on a noise ordinance for the county. A Stuart pig farmer says the proposed noise law is aimed specifically at him and will alter his agricultural business.
Dubuque Targets Noise from Car Stereos and Dogs in Noise Ordinances (May 5, 1998). The Telegraph Herald reports the Dubuque, Iowa ,City Council approved two ordinances Monday night to make the city quieter.
New Noise Ordinance Has Teeth, Says Eagle City, Idaho (May 4, 1998). The Idaho Statesman reports a new noise ordinance approved by Eagle City, Idaho, is now in effect. The City Council is confident the new ordinance is enforceable.
Noise Ordinance Going Too Far in Charleston? (May 2, 1998). The Charleston Daily Mail published an editorial questioning the proposal for Charleston police to use decibel meters to enforce noise ordinances.
Resident Praises Police's Efforts to Keep Greenwich Village Quiet (May 1, 1998). The New York Times published the following letter to the editor, from resident Carole Hale who praises the efforts of the police enforcing the noise ordinance. Hale wrote:
Illinois Residents Say Wal-Mart is a Noisy Neighbor (Apr. 29, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports Lake Zurich, Illinois village officials rejected a proposed 4,000-square-foot expansion to Wal-Mart, citing overdevelopment of the area in general and charging the company specifically with being a noisy neighbor.
Resident Alerts Public to Noise and Its Harmful Effects (Apr. 29, 1998). The Times-Picayune published the following letter alerting readers to the pervasiveness of noise and its harmful effects. The letter is from Metairie, Louisiana, resident, John Guignard. Guignard wrote:
Crackdown on Smaller Crimes in Greenwich Village Works, but Leaves Some Residents Annoyed (Apr. 27, 1998). The New York Times reports that New York City police have been undertaking a crackdown on minor crimes every weekend in Greenwich Village as part of Mayor Rudolph Giuliani's increased focus on quality-of-life crimes. The crackdown, called Operation Civil Village, involves radar traps, sound traps, drunken-driving checkpoints, stolen-vehicle checkpoints, motorcycle checkpoints, and license, registration, and insurance-card checkpoints. The article notes that while police and some residents say the project has been a huge success, other residents complain about being stopped by police when they've done nothing wrong, about police officers harassing people, and about long waits in traffic when police are checking IDs.
Resident Loses in Complaint about Noise from NJ Bar (Apr. 27, 1998). The Asbury Park Press reports a Beach Haven bar and restaurant in Toms River, New Jersey, which has been fined three times for violating the borough's noise ordinance, had those violations overturned in Superior Court last week.
Idaho Resident Complains About Booming Car Stereos; Police Say Noise Ordinance is in Place, But it's Difficult to Catch Violators in Cars (Apr. 24, 1998). The Idaho Statesman reports that Jim Asbury, a resident of Boise, Idaho, has complained to police about noise from booming car stereos near the Fairview Avenue and Mitchell Street intersection. Police say they have investigated noise complaints in the area, but have difficulty catching violators in cars with loud stereos.
Neighbors in Illinois Township Worry About Potential Problems From Proposed Minor League Baseball Stadium (Apr. 24, 1998). The Chicago Sun-Times reports that a 5,000-seat, $7-million minor league baseball stadium was proposed last month in Schaumburg Township, Illinois. But Mandy Hagestedt, a neighbor who said she first learned about the proposed stadium on the evening news, is organizing other residents who are concerned about the noise, traffic, and bright lights that the stadium will bring.
Canadian Columnist Writes Fairy Tale About Amplified Concerts in Calgary (Apr. 21, 1998). The Calgary Herald printed an editorial regarding a recent city council decision in Calgary, Alberta to allow festival promoters to apply for exemptions from the noise bylaw to hold performances past 10 pm at Prince's Island Park. The editorial writer tells a fairy tale about the situation, with two possible outcomes: one in which the merchants encourage the loud concerts and the residents shun their businesses, and another in which large concerts are banned from the park, while several smaller concerts are allowed, and everyone is happy.
Enforce Santa Fe's Noise Ordinance (Apr. 13, 1998). The Santa Fe New Mexican published an editorial about on-going noise issues in Santa Fe, prompted most recently by residents' complaints about a local bar. It's the editor's opinion that a sound-level meter and an enforceable ordinance would solve the city's noise problems.
Noise Expert Says Wall Won't Block Noise from Ohio Amphitheater (Apr. 10, 1998). The Columbus Dispatch reports Westerville, Ohio's noise consultant said yesterday the higher wall planned for the Polaris Amphitheater this summer won't solve the noise problem in the neighborhood. Instead, he advocates for stricter enforcement of existing noise standards and stronger penalties for violators.
Colden Lake Neighbors Wary of Noise from Motorcycle Races (Apr. 10, 1998). The Buffalo News reports the Colden , New York, Town Board Thursday night approved a special-use permit for an "off-road grand prix" to be held at the Colden Lakes Resort despite the objections of a few residents.
Wales' Residents Voice Noise Concerns Over Pub's Request for Music License (Apr. 9, 1998). The South Wales Evening Post reports a Swansea community council is fighting a pub's application for a music license, citing noise concerns.
Noise from Youth Gatherings Frustrates Neighbors in Bartlett Park, St. Petersburg, Florida. (Apr. 8, 1998). The St. Petersburg Times reports that the noise from thousands of youth gathered each Sunday at Bartlett Park in St. Petersburg, Florida is frustrating neighborhood residents.
The City of Sante Fe Seeks to Put a Stop to NightClub Noise. (Apr. 7, 1998). The Albuquerque Journal reports that city officials of Sante Fe, New Mexico have been attempting for over a year to put a stop to the noise from a local nightclub.
Public Opinion Poll Favoring Renovation of Amphitheater in Jacksonville, Florida Considered Biased (Apr. 5, 1998). The Florida Times-Union printed a column by Dave Roman on April 5, 1998 concerning a public opinion poll that found voters supported, by a 2 to 1 margin, the renovation of the Amphitheater at Metropolitan Park in Jackson, Florida.
University Students in England Complain about Night Time Noise on Campus (Mar. 26, 1998). The Leicester Mail reports De Montfort University students who live near the student union have complained about late night noise coming from the union.
New Jersey Township Looks at New York City Regulations on Ice Cream Truck Music (Mar. 25, 1998). The Asbury Park Press reports that the Township Council in Stafford Township, New Jersey recently banned music from ice cream trucks. But now, because ice cream vendors are saying the ban will hurt their business, the Township Council is looking at New York City's ordinance regulating amplified music from street vendor vehicles. That ordinance stipulates that a vendor cannot "emit a sound signal more frequently than once every 10 minutes in any city block" and the sound cannot last for more than 10 seconds.
Alabama State Court Upholds Montgomery Noise Ordinance (Mar. 21, 1998). The Montgomery Advertiser reports that the Alabama Court of Criminal Appeals ruled unanimously Friday that Montgomery's noise ordinance is constitutional, after a challenge was brought by Eddie Lee Moore, who was ticketed while listening to talk radio.
Businesses in Florida Protest Noise Ordinance (Mar. 21, 1998). The Tampa Tribune reports that some Ybor City, Florida, business owners in the Latin Quarter say a proposed citywide noise ordinance would put them out of business.
In Ybor City, Florida, Bar Owners Oppose Noise Ordinance (Mar. 20, 1998). The St. Petersburg Times reports Ybor City bar owners are opposed to the newest efforts to reduce noise in the historic Florida district.
Gates Put Up in Lincoln State Park to Curb Night-Time Noise from Joy Riders (Mar. 19, 1998). The Providence Journal-Bulletin reports the state has installed two gates on the road that circles Olney Pond at Lincoln Woods State Park in an effort to cut down on evening joyriders who speed around the pond with their car radios blasting.
Will Noise Ordinance be Adjusted for New Jersey Ice Cream Vendors? (Mar. 18, 1998). The Asbury Park Press reports that New Jersey officials in Stafford Township are seeking a compromise in an ordinance that bans ice cream vendors from playing amplified music from their trucks.
Maine Residents Cry "Extended Use"; Object to Concerts at Revival Site (Mar. 17, 1998). The Portland Press Herald reports a third meeting moderated by town officials failed to alleviate residents' noise and traffic concerns about a new outdoor amphitheater in Old Orchard Beach.
NJ Town Bans Amplified Music from Ice-Cream Vendors (Mar. 5, 1998). The Asbury Park Press published an editorial about the decision Tuesday night by the Stafford, New Jersey, Township Committee to ban amplified music from ice cream trucks.
New Jersey Town Passes Ordinance that Bans Ice Cream Truck Tunes (Mar. 4, 1998). The New York Times reports that the Town Council in Stafford Township, New Jersey passed an ordinance tonight by a vote of 4-2 to ban amplified sound on ice cream trucks. The ordinance allows ice cream vendors to use hand bells in place of musical tunes, the article notes.
Florida Residents Ban All-Night Dance Festivals (Mar. 4, 1998). The Ledger of Lakeland, Florida, reports a new law placing restrictions on outdoor concerts in Polk County was approved recently after last year's all-night dance festival outraged neighbors.
Another NJ Town Bans Music from Ice-Cream Trucks (Mar. 4, 1998). BC Cycle reports Stafford Township, New Jersey, has become the latest community to ban ice cream trucks from playing music to attract their customers.
Knoxville Delays Vote on Noise Ordinance to Explore How to Regulate Amplified Music (Feb. 24, 1998). The Knoxville News-Sentinel reports the Knoxville City Council is expected to delay action on at least two matters currently on its agenda for tonight. One of the items is proposed revisions to the city's noise ordinance. The other issue deals with revisions to the ordinance governing wrecker service operations.
Animal Rights Activists Make Noise At Circus (Feb. 21, 1998). The Richmond Times Dispatch reports that animal rights activists in Richmond, Virginia protested the Barnum and Bailey Circus using megaphones in violation of the local noise ordinance.
California City Strengthens Noise Ordinance for Businesses Offering Live Music (Feb. 13, 1998). The Los Angeles Times reports that Cypress, California's City Council has strengthened its noise ordinance in response to resident complaints. Now, businesses offering live music will need to keep noise under a certain decibel limit, employ security guards, and keep doors and windows shut.
Florida Residents Get Angry About Nightclub Noise (Feb. 13, 1998). The Sun-Sentinel reports that the City Council in Plantation, Florida is considering a nightclub ordinance after hearing from seven residents and business owners at a recent meeting about noise and other problems at two restaurant-lounges on State Road 7.
Complaints of Too-Loud Movie Trailers in US and Canada (Jan. 23, 1998). The Toronto Star reports that increasingly loud noise from Hollywood movie trailers is making movie-goers and theater owners unhappy in the US and in Canada.
Resident Accuses City Council of Ignoring Noise Ordinance (Jan. 23, 1998). The News & Record of Greensboro, NC, printed the following letter to the editor from a resident disgruntled who says the city's noise ordinance is seldom enforced.
NJ Township Debates Noise from Ice Cream Vendors (Jan. 21, 1998). The Asbury Park Press reports that the Stafford Township Council in New Jersey last night delayed a vote on whether to limit ice cream vendors' noise. Members want time to consider the hotly argued viewpoints expressed during last night's public session.
In Jacksonville, Florida, Smaller is Better in the Noise and Music Wars (Jan. 18, 1998). The Florida Times-Union, in a longer article that makes a bid for a Metropolitan Park amphitheater, recalls the mere fifteen thousand fans who went to the Gator Bowl to hear the Who in 1976. While 15,000 appeared awkward in the Gator Bowl, think how nicely they would fit at a proposed new Metropolitan Park amphitheater, the article suggested A snug audience right up against the riverfront park's new seating capacity of 17,000 would be a compelling picture for all the world to see. The article goes on to suggest that other groups may be enticed by such a comfortable number. It also compares and contrasts the behavior of a larger concert audience to that of a smaller one by citing injury statistics from both small crowd a the 1976 concert and the 70,000 at a concert played by the Rolling Stones.
Four French Quarter Citizen's Groups Seek State Help in Noise Battle in New Orleans, Louisiana (Jan. 14, 1998). The Times-Picayune reports that State Senator Paulette Irons has stepped into the battle over noise control in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana. According to the article, Senator Irons, D-New Orleans, said Tuesday she will ask the state to develop a tourism management plan for New Orleans that covers noise and other quality-of-life issues. Irons, spoke at a news conference called by four groups of Quarter residents who want tougher enforcement of noise controls in their neighborhood. The Quarter groups holding the news conference were the St. Peter Street Neighborhood Improvement Association, the French Quarter Citizens for Preservation of Residential Quality, the Friends of Jackson Square and the Vieux Carre Property Owners, Residents and Associates.
Sarasota, Florida's New Noise Ordinance Will Regulate Outdoor Amplified Music (Jan. 9, 1998). Sarasota Herald-Tribune reports that Sarasota, Florida has adopted a new noise ordinance. The law, which was approved 4-1 by the City Commission, caps the allowable sound level at 75 decibels and requires outdoor music to stop at 10 p.m. during the week and at 11:59 p.m. Fridays, Saturdays and holidays.
Editorial Pushes for Compromise in New Orleans, Louisiana Noise Problem (Jan. 8, 1998). The Times-Picayune printed the following editorial:
Letter to the Editor in Raleigh, North Carolina Urges Residents to Complain About Boom Cars (Jan. 8, 1998). The following letter to the editor was printed in The News and Observer (Raleigh, NC):
City-Imposed Sound Limits May Limit Performances at Proposed Amphitheater (Jan. 8, 1998). The Florida Times-Union reports that Jacksonville, Florida officials have placed a 'non-negotiable' limit of 105 decibels on bands performing at a proposed amphitheater. According to The Cellar Door Cos., the promoter negotiating to run the facility, that wouldn't prevent putting topnotch acts on stage. This is despite the fact that one promoter has said acts like KISS, Boston, Alan Jackson or Sawyer Brown generally play at 110 to 130 decibels and country star Travis Tritt's show July 4 at the current pavilion at Metro Park registered highs of 117 decibels.
Kane County, Illinois Officials Consider Fine For Loud Car Stereos (Jan. 7, 1998). The Chicago Daily Herald reports that Kane County, Illinois officials recently recommended approval of a measure that would allow sheriff's police to issue a $50 ticket to offenders whose car stereos can be heard from 75 feet away. "It's unfortunate we have to have a law like this," board member Rudy Neuberger, an Aurora Democrat, said in the article. "It's just unfortunate we have to regulate consideration for other people."
Letter to the Editor in Favor of Fayetteville, North Carolina Noise Ordinance (Jan. 6, 1998). The News and Observer (Raleigh, North Carolina) recently printed that following letter to the editor:
Tolerance of Dallas Residents Vary with Noise Sources (Jan. 6, 1998). The Dallas Morning News reports that today it is highly unlikely you live without being exposed to somebody else's noise. It may just be the muffled roar of traffic or music from the house next door. Or it may be wailing sirens, the thunder of a passing plane, the muffled roar of traffic.
Nebraska Ampitheater Plan Shelved (Dec. 12, 1997). The Omaha World-Herald reports that the fate of a proposed open-air amphitheater halfway between Omaha and Lincoln remained up in the air Thursday night after the Cass County Planning Commission chose to table the proposal.
Neighbors In Illinois Town Ask University For Night-Game Ban (Dec. 12, 1997). The Chicago Times reports that residents of Evanston, Illinois are fed up with noise and lights from Northwestern University's Ryan Field. A group of Evanston residents is asking the school to ban night football games.
Commercial Land Use in Pennsylvania Brings Noise (Dec. 12, 1997). The Morning Call reports in an editorial that a Wal-Mart store is planned at a 41-acre commercial site in Lower Macungie Township, Pennsylvania. Vexed residents have organized for a fight.
Two Nebraska Land Developments Vie For Commission's Approval (Dec. 12, 1997). The Omaha World-Herald reports that a debate over a proposed amphitheater between Omaha and Lincoln is shaping up to be a choice between the amphitheater complex or an expansion of the nearby Quarry Oaks Golf Course that would include single-family homes and townhomes.
Florida Community Prepares To Revise Noise Ordinance (Dec. 8, 1997). The Sarasota Herald Tribune reports that the Sarasota (Florida) City Commission will tackle two controversial issues - outdoor music and sidewalk cafe dining - during public hearings tonight.
California Judge Attempts to Resolve Dispute Between Wedding Retreat Center and Neighbors (Dec. 3, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports that a hearing held by a state judge in California was intended to avoid a trail over legal arguments between a fancy retreat center in Triunfo Canyon and residents who say the resort causes noise and traffic problems.
California Residents Oppose Proposal to Allow Minor League Baseball Games at College (Nov. 29, 1997). The Ventura County Star reports that residents in Oxnard, California who live near Oxnard College are opposing a proposal for the Pacific Suns minor league baseball team to play games at the college. An environmental study released this week recommended 16 measures to mitigate the traffic, noise, and bright lights that would result from the games, but found that the games would not cause significant problems for residents. The City Council already approved allowing the Suns to play at the college pending the results of the environmental study, the article says, but the Ventura County Community College District has not yet approved the proposal. Their decision is expected in January, the article notes.
Minority-Owned Wisconsin Bar With Noise Violations Receives Scrutiny by City, While County Supervisor Accuses City of Discrimination (Nov. 29, 1997). The Capital Times reports that the Alcohol License Review Committee in Madison, Wisconsin is considering suspending or revoking the liquor license of Taste Buds, a minority-owned bar and restaurant, due to several ordinance violations, including noise violations. Meanwhile, County Board Supervisor Regina Rhyne believes the establishment is not being treated fairly by city officials and is using her position as a minority official to play watchdog over the city.
Residents Opposed to Baseball Stadium in Neighborhood; Noise, Bright Lights and Quality of Life Issues (Nov. 29, 1997). The Ventura County Star reports residents near Oxnard College are disputing a report released this week that says minor league baseball at the college would not have a significant impact on nearby neighborhoods. Residents are concerned about noise, pollution, and bright lights.
Judge Invalidates Florida City's Noise Ordinance (Nov. 27, 1997). The Sarasota Herald-Tribune reports that a judge invalidated the noise ordinance in Sarasota, Florida on Wednesday, chalking up a victory for Lemon Coast bar, which challenged the ordinance in July. The noise ordinance had been passed by the City Commission in May, the article says. In response to the ruling, city officials are beginning the process of creating a new ordinance that will correct the faults found by the judge in the previous ordinance.
Arizona Resident Advises Neighbor of High School to Put up With Early Morning Band Practice (Nov. 26, 1997). The Arizona Republic printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Karen Noble, a Chandler, Arizona resident, regarding the controversy over early morning band practice at a high school in Chandler:
Arizona Resident Believes City Ordinance Should be Upheld in Early Morning High School Band Practice Controversy (Nov. 26, 1997). The Arizona Republic printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Cece West, a Queen Creek, Arizona resident, regarding noise from early morning high school band practice in Chandler:
Arizona Residents Living Near High School With Early Morning Band Practice Get the Scorn of Band Member Parent (Nov. 26, 1997). The Arizona Republic printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Phoenix resident Lee Ann Hopper regarding the controversy over early-morning high school band practice in Chandler, Arizona:
Florida Town Meeting Focuses on Noise and River Pollution (Nov. 26, 1997). The Florida Times-Union reports that a town meeting in Arlington, Florida was held Thursday by City Councilor John Crescimbeni, and was attended by about 35 residents. The main topics of discussion were the health of the St. Johns River and noise pollution from concerts at Alltel Stadium.
Arizona Resident Says High School Marching Band Should be Required to Abide by Noise Law (Nov. 25, 1997). The Arizona Republic printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Jeff Suchard, a Phoenix resident, regarding the controversy over early morning band practice of the Mountain Pointe Marching Band:
Arizona Resident Who Complained About Early Morning Band Practice is Blasted by Other Residents (Nov. 24, 1997). The Arizona Republic printed the following letters-to-the-editor from residents in Sun City West, Chandler, Glendale, Ahwatukee, and Phoenix, Arizona responding to a resident who complained about early morning noise from a high school marching band in the Chandler area:
Public Parks in India are Being Turned Into Noisy Celebration Venues, Columnist Complains (Nov. 24, 1997). Business Line printed an editorial in which the columnist argues that public parks in India are being converted into locations for one noisy personal celebration after another. The writer urges people to join the "quiet India" revolution in order to save the public parks for their intended use and protect human hearing.
Arizona Resident Thinks Early Morning School Band Practice is Cause for Lawsuit (Nov. 21, 1997). The Arizona Republic printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Bob Ederer, a Tempe, Arizona resident, regarding the controversy over early morning marching band practice at the Mountain Pointe High School:
California County Supervisor Fights Proposed Amphitheater (Nov. 20, 1997). The Sacramento Bee reports that about 20 residents of Placer County, California met with Placer County Supervisor Bill Santucci about encroaching development in the county. While residents are fighting a Home Depot store permit in Auburn, Santucci is fighting the proposed Bill Graham Presents amphitheater in West Placer. Santucci said the amphitheater will have traffic and noise problems.
English Boy's Complaint About Noisy Neighbor Leads to Neighbor's Eviction (Nov. 20, 1997). The Daily Mail reports that Jeanette King and her two children of Bournemouth, England have been evicted from their home after a 13-year-old neighbor complained that King's non-stop playing of Frank Sinatra and Dire Straits records were preventing him from doing his homework.
Florida Residents Call for Noise Pollution Reduction Inside Stadium (Nov. 20, 1997). The Orlando Sentinel Tribune printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Len and Barbara Bergeson, residents of Merritt Island, Florida, regarding noise pollution at an Orlando Magic game:
Mom of Marching Band Student Castigates Arizona Resident who Complained About Noise (Nov. 20, 1997). The Arizona Republic printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Christine Eaton, a Phoenix resident, regarding noise from early morning band practice by the Mountain Pointe High School marching band:
Alabama City Council Warns Nightclub About Noise Complaints; Club Owners Insist They Aren't Noisy (Nov. 19, 1997). The Montgomery Advertiser reports that the Montgomery (Alabama) City Council on Tuesday warned owners of the Diamonds nightclub on Narrow Lane Road that there have been noise complaints about the establishment. However, nightclub owners insist they aren't causing the noise.
Arizona Resident Wants Early Morning Marching Band to Obey Law (Nov. 18, 1997). The Arizona Republic reports that a resident in the Gilbert, Arizona area is trying to quiet the noise of early morning band practice from the Mountain Pointe High School Marching Band. Resident Julie Reiter Suchard, who lives at Ray Road and 44th Street across from the school's football field, has complained to city officials, and has discovered that the band is violating a city code that regulates noise from musical instruments between 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. However, Suchard's complaint is drawing anger from band students, who say they have no other time to practice.
Florida Residents Living Near Proposed Lakeshore Park Are Worried About Noise (Nov. 15, 1997). The Florida Times-Union reports that residents in Eagle Harbor, in the Jacksonville, Florida area, are worried about the county's plans to build a 3-acre recreational park on Doctors Lake off Lakeshore Drive North, because of the potential noise from loud, late-night music. The county planning commission will hold a public hearing on the matter on December 2, and will decide the matter on December 23.
California Wedding Retreat Site and Neighbors Continue Five-Year Feud Over Noise and Traffic (Nov. 13, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports that a retreat center called Fantasy Island, located in Agoura, California, has had a long history of noise and traffic complaints. The article discusses the history of the problems at the center, owned by a sometimes-inflammatory Israeli immigrant. The article notes that problems have often stemmed from lame zoning enforcement and lack of action by local officials.
New Zealand Car Club's Noise Levels From Loudspeaker Are Under Review (Nov. 13, 1997). The Timaru Herald reports that officials are reviewing the resource consent (permit) for the loudspeaker system of the South Canterbury Car Club's Falvey Road site near Timaru, New Zealand. The car club had sought to raise the permitted noise level from 45 decibels to 50 decibels, but the council intends to review two conditions of that proposal.
No-Noise Advocates No Longer Quiet in New York City (Oct. 28, 1997). The Christian Science Monitor recently printed the following editorial whose subject was noise and the resulting "quiet crisis."
Wisconsin Resident Says Noise Complaints Near Randall Stadium Legitimate (Oct. 28, 1997). The Capital Times of Madison, Wisconsin, ran the following editorial written by a reader. The reader is Chuck Erickson, member of the Vilas Neighborhood Association zoning committee. Mr. Erickson responded to a recent column published in the newspaper about the city cracking down on noise from bars near Camp Randall Stadium. Mr. Erickson takes exception to what he saw as a mocking tone of the writer of the column in reference to residents who have complained about the noise.
Environmentalists and Mobile Home Park Residents in California Oppose Plan for Minor League Baseball Games (Oct. 23, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports that a minor league baseball team wants to play on a field at Oxnard College in Oxnard, California. Residents worry that noise and traffic would result from their base there. The team, the Pacific Suns, planned to talk with college officials on Tuesday but the issue was postponed until next month's trustees meeting.
Texas Residents Oppose Fast-Food Restaurant Partly Because of Noise From Drive-Through Window (Oct. 23, 1997). The Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports that the Trophy Club, Texas Town Council voted to approve the use of a drive-through window for a proposed Wendy's franchise in the Tetco building on state highway 114. Public opposition to the fast-food restaurant was strong, based mostly on the feeling that a fast food restaurant was not in keeping with the affluent, leisure-class image of the community. Increased noise and traffic problems were also brought up, the article says.
Two California Environmental Groups File Lawsuit to Block Golf Course and Amphitheater (Oct. 21, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports that the Environmental Defense Center and the California Native Plant Society have filed a lawsuit against the Ventura County, California to stop a golf course and a 16,000-seat amphitheater from being built at the 320-acre Camarillo Regional Park. Members of the group believe the environmental study of the project's impacts is inadequate and doesn't fully address the problems the project would cause related to air quality, noise, traffic, wetlands, and biological habitat.
New York City Resident Argues That the City's New Noise Ordinance is Meaningless (Oct. 20, 1997). The New York Times printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Adrienne Leban, a New York City resident, who says that the city's recently passed ordinance that raises the fines for noise violators will not work for several reasons:
Neighbors of California's Universal Studios Mount Increasing Opposition to Noise and Expansion Plans (Oct. 19, 1997). The San Diego Union-Tribune reports that neighbors of Universal Studios in the Los Angeles, California area are mounting an opposition over the studio's plans for a multi-billion-dollar expansion. Residents already have been disturbed for years by the lights, noise, and continuous action from the studios, and now they say the expansion plans are too much.
Virginia Citizens Like Waterfront Gathering Area; Some Residents Dislike its Noise (Oct. 19, 1997). The Virginian-Pilot printed an editorial regarding a recent "Vision 2005" meeting in Portsmouth, Virginia Thursday to discuss Portside, the downtown waterfront gathering place. The columnist said a standing-room-only crowd showed up to give both positive and negative comments on the area. While some nearby residents spoke against the gathering place on the grounds of noise, many residents gave positive comments. The columnist argues that the area provides a needed community space, and that the noise impact on the surrounding area can be mitigated.
Residents Oppose Outdoor Amphitheater in Florida (Oct. 18, 1997). The Florida Times-Union reports that a debate over whether the City of Jacksonville, Florida should build an amphitheater in Metropolitan Park is heating up. At a meeting Monday of the Southwest Citizens Planning Advisory Committee, two residents expressed their opposition to the proposal on behalf of a citizens group. City representatives did not attend the meeting, the article reports.
Amphitheater Manager in Virginia Continues with Noise Reduction Measures; Residents Still Unhappy (Oct. 15, 1997). The Virginian-Pilot reports that noise complaints have plagued GTE Amphitheater in Virginia Beach, Virginia since it opened two years ago. At a meeting of the City Council on Tuesday, representatives of Cellar Door, which manages the amphitheater, said they plan to plant trees to cut down on noise, adjust lawn speakers, and consider purchasing better speakers. But City Councilors and residents continued to by skeptical and angry about the problem, the article says.
City and County Noise Ordinances in Idaho Prove Effective (Oct. 4, 1997). The Idaho Statesman reports that two noise ordinances passed this year in Boise and Ada County, Idaho appear to be working, according to officials. Noise citations are up and complaints are down, they said.
Louisiana City Police Start Fining Owners of Car Alarms That Go Off Unnecessarily (Sep. 24, 1997). The Times-Picayune reports that Kenner (Louisiana) Police Chief Nick Congemi this week started using the city's noise ordinance to curb the number of false car alarms his officers investigate. Officers now will give summons to any vehicle owner whose alarm has sounded for more than 15 minutes, unless criminal activity is suspected, the article says. The summons carries a maximum fine of $500, 60 days in jail, or both. Congemi's crackdown on car alarms comes after he proposed a bylaw to the City Council that would have fined vehicle owners $25 for false or faulty car alarms, but councillors didn't even discuss the proposal.
Georgia County Commission Considers Broad Noise Ordinance (Sep. 11, 1997). The Atlanta Journal reports that County Commissioners in Newton County, Georgia are considering adopting a noise ordinance that would limit a wide range of noises, including excessive noise from car horns, loud music, noisy animals, and ice cream truck music.
Second Hearing Held on Noise Ordinance in Massachusetts Town (Sep. 9, 1997). The Telegram & Gazette reports that the Town Council in Southbridge, Massachusetts held its second hearing on a proposed ordinance that would set time limits on some types of noisy activity and institute methods of punishing offenders. Councillor Mark Carron made a motion to send the proposed ordinance back to the General Government Subcommittee for further review and revision. But that motion was defeated by an 8-5 vote. The third and final hearing, at which councillors are expected to vote on the ordinance, will be held September 22.
South Australian Government Will Monitor Noise Levels in Nightclubs (Sep. 9, 1997). AAP Newsfeed reports that the South Australian government will monitor noise levels in nightclubs, hotels, and at concert venues in a project that will seek to improve the health of workers in the entertainment and hospitality industries.
Cities Nationwide Enact Noise Control Ordinances (Sep. 7, 1997). The Telegraph Herald reports that cities across the country have recently passed noise ordinances targeting everything from car stereos, motorcycles, noisy night clubs, outdoor concerts, leafblowers, and ice cream trucks. The article goes on to provide a list of cities that recently have passed ordinances.
Noise Pollution Diminishes Well-Being in an Iowa Town (Sep. 7, 1997). The Telegraph Herald reports that noise pollution is an important issue for many Dubuque, Iowa residents. The article explores the ways in which noise affects our health and well-being, and then goes on to describe Dubuque's noise ordinance and problems with its enforcement.
Noisy Ice Cream Trucks in New York are a Nuisance, Columnist Argues (Sep. 7, 1997). The New York Times printed an editorial in which the writer complains about the noise from ice cream trucks in New York City. The editorial discusses how it is virtually impossible to enforce the current rules regarding noise from the trucks
Constant Noise Exposure Can Lead to Hearing Loss (Sep. 7, 1997). The Telegraph Herald reports that constant exposure to loud noise can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss depending on the volume, duration, and repetition of exposure, according to experts. The article goes on to outline how hearing is damaged from noise pollution.
Iowa Town Ordinance Prohibits Excessive Noise (Sep. 7, 1997). The Telegraph Herald reports that the noise ordinance in Dubuque, Iowa prohibits many excessive noises. The article goes on to describe the specifics of the city ordinance.
Florida City Sends Noise Ordinance Back to the Drawing Board (Aug. 29, 1997). The Tampa Tribune reports that the Tampa (Florida) City Council decided Thursday to ask city attorneys to rewrite the proposed noise ordinance after hearing protests from both residents and business owners. The ordinance is not scheduled for review again until December 4.
Noise Ordinance in Florida City is Delayed Because of Rewriting (Aug. 29, 1997). The St. Petersburg Times reports that city lawyers in Tampa, Florida said they need more time to rewrite a proposed noise ordinance so that it can be applied across the city. City officials have postponed the next public hearing on the noise ordinance to December.
Hearing Problems Are Increasing From Noise Pollution (Aug. 25, 1997). Newsweek reports that research has shown that excessive exposure to noise is one of the leading causes of hearing loss and ear damage, contrary to the popular belief that hearing loss is a natural process of aging. The article goes on to discuss the risks to hearing of noise pollution, the ways in which noise damages the ear, the levels at which noise is dangerous, and practical steps people can take to protect their ears.
British Police Will Enforce Noise Restrictions on Car Stereos (Aug. 20, 1997). According to The Northern Echo of England, government officials are preparing to award police with more powers to combat loud car stereos in England.
Maine Resident Decries the Noisiness of Life Outdoors (Aug. 18, 1997). The Kennebec Journal printed an editorial from George Smith, a Mount Vernon, Maine resident, which says that quiet is an important aspect of life in Maine that is not appreciated, understood, protected or respected. The writer goes on to detail several personal experiences he has had with noise or the absence of noise in the outdoors, including noise from trains, personal watercraft, barking dogs, and loud radios, and the affect of noise on fish.
Tests in San Francisco Movie Theaters Show that Some Movie Sound Levels Break 100 Decibels (Aug. 10, 1997). The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Robert Sweetow, audiology director at the University of California at San Francisco, has tested sound levels at San Francisco Bay Area theaters and found that the sound level of some movies exceed 100 decibels, the noise level generated by a jackhammer. Loud sound levels at movies have been encouraged by sophisticated audio technology which now allows soundtracks to be played at very loud levels without fuzziness or distortion, the article says. Unnecessarily loud preview trailers before movies are also an issue, and according to Barry Reardon, president of Warner's Distribution, an industry task force of movie companies and theater owners is trying to standardize and lower preview trailer volumes.
Resident Says Albany's Noise Laws are not Adequate or Enforced (Aug. 4, 1997). The Times Union printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Paul Tick, a resident and chair of the Environment Committee, regarding noise regulations in Albany, New York:
Connecticut City Considers Restricting Ice Cream Truck Music After Resident Complaints (Jul. 30, 1997). The Hartford Courant reports that about 40 residents who attended a neighborhood meeting Tuesday in Hartford, Connecticut to talk about neighborhood problems agreed to propose that the city pass an ordinance that would prohibit ice cream truck vendors from selling their goods after 9 p.m. and would require vendors to reduce the noise level of their bells and songs. The meeting was sponsored by Hartford Areas Rally Together, the article says.
Two U2 Concerts Banned in Ireland Due to Neighbors' Noise Concerns (Jul. 30, 1997). The International Herald Tribune reports that two sold-out homecoming concerts by the Irish rock group U2, scheduled to be held in Dublin, Ireland at the Lansdowne Road rugby stadium, have been banned by the High Court because of residents' concern over noise, according to reports in Irish newspapers on Tuesday. Residents living near the stadium told the court that the Irish Rugby Football Union had no legal right to subject them to loud and persistent noise, the article reports.
Noise Laws in Albany Should be Enforced, Columnist Thinks (Jul. 24, 1997). The Times printed an editorial in which the writer reports at the last caucus of the Albany Common Council, the council president circulated a letter from residents of Central Avenue asking the council to pass an ordinance directed at cars with loud boom boxes. The writer points out that the city's ordinances are already very tough on noise, but the codes are not very well-publicized or used.
Ohio City and County Set to Discuss Noise Problems at Outdoor Amphitheatre (Jul. 24, 1997). The Dayton Daily News reports that Columbus (Ohio) City Council President Michael Coleman will meet with Delaware County commissioners to discuss complaints about noise and violence at the Polaris Amphitheatre. The amphitheatre, about five miles north of Columbus, is under the jurisdiction of the city, and county commissioners recently have said Columbus officials have been lax about controlling concert-related noise. Residents living near the amphitheatre have complained about its noise since it opened in 1994. Meanwhile, the city attorney's office is drafting a new noise ordinance, the article reports.
Health Expert Reports that Occupants of Boom Cars are Placing their Hearing at Risk (Jul. 23, 1997). The Tampa Tribune reports that according to Kenneth Gerhardt, a University of Florida professor of audiology who specializes in the effects of noise on hearing, occupants of "boom cars," are placing their hearing at risk from the loud music.
Mayor of Ohio Town Wants a New Noise Ordinance; Some Residents Oppose the Idea (Jul. 23, 1997). The Cincinnati Enquirer reports that a new noise ordinance is being considered by the city council in Deer Park, Ohio to deal mostly with loud car stereos. The proposed ordinance has the support of the city's mayor, but is being opposed by at least two outspoken residents.
England Town Launches Noise Exposure Survey to Encourage Quiet Neighborhoods (Jul. 22, 1997). The Northern Echo of England escalating complaints of domestic noise from barking dogs, loud music and other sources have prompted the town of Sedgefield, England, to take action.
Why We Fill Our Lives with Constant Noise -- Some Spiritual and Psychological Explanations (Jul. 21, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports that people tend to avoid silence. Several theories for why this is so include: humans are addicted to audible sensory input, we need noise to replace a lack of spiritual satisfaction, and sound can designate personal space
Minneapolis Noise Ordinance Misrepresented in Paper (Jul. 20, 1997). The Star Tribune reports that a Minneapolis city official and some Minneapolis residents were upset by the wording of a Star Tribune article on July 12 which described the new noise ordinance passed by the Minneapolis City Council. Residents and the city official claim the article was hyperpole and editorializing, and misled readers into believing the ordinance is unreasonable. The article goes on to quote the offending paragraph of the article, and to print more information about the city's ordinance.
Tampa Moves Forward With Ordinance to Control Noise in the Entertainment District (Jul. 18, 1997). The Tampa Tribune reports that the Tampa (Florida) City Council decided Thursday to consider in three weeks a new noise ordinance aimed at noisy bars in the Ybor City entertainment district. The article says that if bar owners voluntarily improve the situation, the council might decide to put the noise ordinance on the back burner. However, the article reports, if the ordinance is passed when the council considers it in three weeks, it would then be called up for a second and final vote in 90 days.
All Parties Should Work Together in Controversy Over PA System at L.A. Little League Field (Jul. 13, 1997). The Los Angeles Times printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Laura Chick, a Los Angeles City Councillor, regarding the controversy over noise from the PA system at Los Angeles's Franklin Fields baseball field:
Florida Restauraunt Files Lawsuit Challenging City's Noise Ordinance That Targets Music (Jul. 11, 1997). The Sarasota Herald-Tribune reports that owners of the Lemon Coast Grill in downtown Sarasota, Florida filed a lawsuit against the city Thursday, challenging the noise ordinance that limits outdoor music. The lawsuit argues that the ordinance is unconstitutional, and asks for an injunction that would prevent the city from enforcing the ordinance until the case is resolved.
Village in New York Considers Noise Ordinance Directed at Loud Nighttime Music (Jul. 3, 1997). The Buffalo News reports that the Village Board in Blasdell, New York will hold a public hearing July 16 on adding a noise ordinance to the village code, in response to complaints from residents about loud music after 2 or 3 a.m. According to the article, the proposed ordinance would limit noise levels to 65 decibels between 9 a.m. and 10 p.m., and 60 decibels from 10 p.m. to 9 a.m., said Village Clerk Barbara Cesar. Noise levels would be measured with a decibel sound meter installed in a police car.
Wisconsin Village Approves Noise Ordinance to Address Noisy Vehicles (Jul. 3, 1997). The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports that the Village Board in Bayside, Wisconsin has approved an ordinance that allows police officers to issue disorderly conduct citations to motorists for any loud noise coming from a vehicle, including loud car stereos and peeling rubber when accelerating. According to the article, the ordinance was requested by Police Chief Bruce Resnick because officers currently have no enforcement power over such behavior. The article adds that the ordinance does not cover noise from motorcycles.
Ohio City Passes Ordinance to Target Loud Car Stereos (Jul. 2, 1997). The Dayton Daily News reports that the Huber Heights (Ohio) City Council passed an amendment to the city's noise ordinance last week that restricts noise from car stereos, effective immediately.
Residents Living Near Ohio Amphitheater Complain About Noise, While County Official Launches Effort to Help (Jul. 2, 1997). The Columbus Dispatch reports that residents living near the Polaris Amphitheater in Westerville, Ohio have been complaining about noise from concerts for several years, with little tangible result. Now, Delaware County Commissioner Donald Wuertz has launched an effort to get the city of Columbus to enforce its noise ordinance, and visited residents near the amphitheater last night during an Ozzy Osbourne concert. The article goes on to focus on the impact of the concert noise on the life of one family who lives near the amphitheater.
Neighbors of Ohio Amphitheater Have Little Legal Recourse to Quiet the Music (Jul. 1, 1997). The Columbus Dispatch reports that neighbors of the Polaris Amphitheater, in Columbus, Ohio in southern Delaware County, have brought their noise complaints to Delaware County officials after saying they get no help from Columbus officials. Columbus has jurisdiction over the amphitheater. At a meeting between officials from Delaware County, Westerville, and Columbus yesterday to discuss noise problems from Polaris, Delaware County officials learned that a violation of Columbus's noise ordinance requires decibel levels to be over 65 decibels for an average of an hour and complaints cannot be registered over the telephone. In addition, only residents of Columbus can file a complaint, the article says. Neighbors who live in Westerville or unincorporated Delaware County have no legal recourse.
Residents in New York Town Complain About Noise From New Warning Sirens (Jun. 29, 1997). Newsday reports that two new sirens in the Bay Park area of Hempstead, New York were installed to warn residents of hurricanes or disasters at the nearby Nassau County sewage plant, but homeowners who live near the sirens say the sirens' piercing wails are too loud. Until recently, the sirens went off every noon and during fire calls in other neighborhoods.
Idaho County to Decide on Exemption to Noise Law Involving Sporting Events and Fairs (Jun. 26, 1997). The Idaho Statesman reports that Ada County (Idaho) Commissioners will hold a special meeting today to vote on an amendment to the county's noise ordinance that would allow regularly scheduled sporting events and fairs to be exempt from the regulations. The noise ordinance was passed in early June, and prohibits noise that is plainly audible from 100 feet of the source between 10 p.m and 7 a.m. Already exempted from the ordinance are emergency sirens, trains, planes, and authorized fireworks displays. If approved, the new exemption would allow the Boise Hawks Stadium to continue to use their PA system after 10 p.m.
Idaho County Should Revise Noise Ordinance (Jun. 24, 1997). The Idaho Statesman reports in an editorial that Ada County's new noise ordinance should be revised to be more flexible, but fair and strict at the same time. The shortcomings of the ordinance were obvious, the editorial says, during a recent outdoor concert and baseball game.
Neighborhood Group and Local Illinois City Police Work Together to Enforce Anti-Noise Law (Jun. 24, 1997). The Chicago Tribune reports that an effort in Aurora, Illinois to enforce a noise ordinance directed at blaring stereos from vehicles has combined the forces of the Near West Side Neighborhood Association with community police officers. Under "Operation Boombox," as the effort is called, residents in the neighborhood group use two-way radios to notify nearby squad cars if they hear a blaring vehicle stereo, allowing police officers to arrive quickly at the scene and determine whether a violation has occurred. If so, officers can impound the vehicle, the article says.
Illinois City Passes Ordinance to Quiet Outdoor Music (Jun. 20, 1997). The Chicago Tribune reports that the City Council in Batavia, Illinois has approved changes to the current municipal code aimed at quieting outdoor music.
Ohio Official Tries to Get Action on Amphitheater Noise Complaints, But Gets Nowhere (Jun. 19, 1997). The Columbus Dispatch reports that Don Wuertz, president of the Delaware County (Ohio) Commission, tried to respond to residents' complaints about noise from the Polaris Amphitheater Tuesday night, but could get no action from Columbus police. Wuertz says that the amphitheater has not been a good neighbor, and the city of Columbus is ignoring complaints of the residents who live near it.
Homeowners Shut Down Little League PA System in California City (Jun. 18, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports that the Army Corps of Engineers -- which is responsible for enforcing noise rules in the Sepulveda Basin in Encino, California -- temporarily prohibited the use of a public address system that has neighbors complaining. The system exceeds the local 60-decibel limit for noise.
Legal Worries Complicate Passage of Florida County Noise Ordinance (Jun. 18, 1997). The St. Petersburg Times reports that the Pasco County (Florida) Commission and sheriff's office have been trying to create and pass a noise ordinance to respond to frequent noise complaints, but have been delayed by legal worries about whether the ordinance would hold up in court.
California Little League Plays Without a PA System After Residents Complain (Jun. 17, 1997). The Daily News of Los Angeles reports that the baseball leagues that use the Franklin Fields in Encino, California have had a four-week ban placed on their PA system after nearby residents complained about the noise. The ban, which began Wednesday, was imposed by the Army Corps of Engineers, which owns the land. If a league violates the ban, the Army Corps has said it will prohibit the league from using the field for two months.
Florida County Considers Stricter Noise Ordinance (Jun. 17, 1997). The Tampa Tribune reports that the Pasco County (Florida) Commission will hold a hearing this morning on proposed changes to the existing noise ordinance that would define stricter noise limits and allow sheriff's deputies to issue violations.
Sarasota Resident Thinks New Noise Ordinance is Unworkable (Jun. 17, 1997). The Sarasota Herald-Tribune printed the following letter-to-the-editor from Leslie Freeman, a Sarasota, Florida resident, regarding the city's new noise ordinance. Freeman says the ordinance is unworkable because the decibel limits are too low, and calls on citizens to oppose the 10 p.m. weekday curfew on outdoor music. The letter follows:
Festival in Ottawa Should be Subject to Noise Ordinance (Jun. 16, 1997). The Ottawa Citizen printed the following letter-to-the-editor from John Taylor, an Ottawa resident, about the noise from loud music at the city's Italian Week festival:
Massachusetts City Considers Detailed Noise Ordinance (Jun. 16, 1997). The Telegram & Gazette reports that the General Government Subcommittee in Southbridge, Massachusetts will review a proposed bylaw tonight designed to prohibit unlawful noise which "annoys, disturbs, injures or endangers the comfort, repose, health, peace or safety of any reasonable person, of normal sensitivity, residing in the area." The Town Council must hold three readings on the noise bylaw before voting on its acceptance, the article says.
Florida City to Study Recently Passed Noise Ordinance and Consider Alterations (Jun. 11, 1997). The Sarasota Herald-Tribune reports that the Sarasota (Florida) City Commission agreed Tuesday to leave a recently passed noise ordinance as it is for now, but to investigate whether it needs to be changed by first undertaking more noise tests. A controversy arose after two restaurant owners recently were fined for noise from outdoor music, and noise readings of the police differed from noise readings of the restaurant owners.
Idaho County Passes Noise Ordinance (Jun. 10, 1997). The Idaho Statesman reports that the Ada County (Idaho) Commission has approved a noise ordinance that bans "loud or offensive" noise that is audible 100 feet or more from the source between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. The ordinance covers Boise, Idaho and all other locations in the county.
Florida City's Enforcement of Outdoor Music Regulations Draws Complaints from Bar-Owners (Jun. 10, 1997). The Sarasota Herald-Tribune reports that last month, the Sarasota, Florida City Commission passed two ordinances designed to control outdoor amplified music, and over the past weekend, police officers issued violations to owners of the Lemon Coast Grill and Groove, and the Main Street Depot. Business owners are saying they were targeted to receive violations and that the city's decibel readings are much higher than their own readings.
National Basketball Association Orders Utah Stadium to Turn Down the Volume (Jun. 9, 1997). The Des Moines Register reports that the National Basketball Association has ordered Utah to turn down the volume on the PA system at the Delta Center, but the basketball team the Utah Jazz are arguing against the restrictions, saying the players can't hear their introductions and the dancers can't hear their music.
Ohio Town Police Chief Wants Noise Ordinance for Car Stereos (Jun. 5, 1997). The Plain Dealer reports that Medina, Ohio Police Chief Dennis Hanwell has asked the city council to amend the existing noise ordinance to allow police to use their own discretion in issuing citations for noise generated by car stereos in parking lots. City Councillor Pam Miller said she expects council to approve the amendment, the article says.
Virginia Town Strengthens Noise Ordinance to Deal With Car Stereos (Jun. 4, 1997). The Virginian-Pilot reports that the Elizabeth City, Virginia City Council has unanimously passed a stronger noise ordinance addressed at loud car stereos.
Controlling Car Stereos is a Good Idea in Connecticut Town (Jun. 3, 1997). The Hartford Courant printed an editorial in which the recent move by the board of selectmen in Stafford, Connecticut to consider a noise ordinance for car stereos is applauded. The editorial advises the board of selectmen to act quickly to approve the ordinance, and advises townspeople to support the proposal at public hearings.
Noise Tests of Nightclub Along Massachusetts Coast Show Mitigation Measures May Be Working (Jun. 2, 1997). The Patriot Ledger reports that residents in the Marina Bay area of Quincy, Massachusetts who complained last summer about noise from the WaterWorks seaside club may have a quieter summer this year due to new noise barriers at the club. License board Chair Joseph Shea said tests show the noise barriers are successfully blocking the loud music from the club. Shea said license officials will review the noise test results at a 10 a.m. meeting tomorrow, and because the noise problem is being curbed, the board also may vote on requests by the club owner to raise the patron capacity from to 1,250 to 1,600 and extend the 11 p.m. live music curfew until 1 a.m.
Floridian Waterfront Community Fights Excessive Music From Restaurants (May 15, 1997). The Tampa Tribune reports the growing commerical restaurant business along the Pithlachascotee River in Port Richey, Florida has residents complaining about the loud live music. The city already has a noise ordinance, which councilman Ron Barnett supported a stricter enforcement of after the city council met with restaurant owners and riverfront residents.
Illinois Town Considers Expanding Noise Restrictions (May 15, 1997). The Chicago Tribune reports that the Downers Grove, Illinois Village Council is considering expanding its noise regulations to restrict the use of outdoor home tools and loud stereos from vehicles. In addition, the council is considering giving police more power in handling noise complaints.
Richmond Police Officers Lack Noise Ordinance Enforcement (May 15, 1997). The Richmond (Virginia) Times Dispatch printed an editorial in response to Sergeant Dale Mullen's letter to the editor defending the police department's actions with respect to the noise ordinance. This editorial claims that there have been only six convictions for violating Richmond's noise ordinance since June 1996, and that this proves the Richmond police have not been actively enforcing the ordinance.
Richmond Police Say Noise Ordinance is Being Enforced, Citing Six Convictions Since June (May 13, 1997). The Richmond Times Dispatch reports that yesterday Charlene Hinton of the Richmond (Virginia) Police Department told the City Council that since last June there have been six convictions for violating the city's noise ordinance. The comments came after the police department had been criticized for not enforcing the noise ordinance.
Florida Town Struggles to Reconcile Noise Issue Between Residents and Restaurant Owners (May 12, 1997). The Tampa Tribune reports that due to a boom in business along Port Richey, Florida's waterfront, four restaurants are now offering live music, outdoor seating, and drinks in the evenings. But homeowners along the Pithlachascotee River and Miller's Bayou, who live directly across from the restaurants, say noise from the restaurants echoes across the water and disrupts their peace. City officials are struggling to solve the problem.
Vending Trucks in California City Must Cut the Noise Under New Rules (May 8, 1997). The Los Angeles Times reports that on May 5, Costa Mesa (California) officials passed an ordinance that bans the use of horns -- and other attention-getting devices -- from being used by truck vendors for non-driving purposes. The city wants to quiet neighborhoods where residents have complained about noise from truck vendors selling ice cream, produce, and other products. City officials say that some trucks drive by the same area every ten minutes.
Sacramento and Amphitheater Reach Tentative Compromise on Noise Reduction (May 1, 1997). The Sacramento Bee reports that the city of Sacramento (California) and the amphitheater Cal Expo have reached a tentative settlement in their dispute over concert noise problems at the amphitheater. Under the settlement, the city has agreed to drop its lawsuit against Cal Expo and allow later nighttime curfews than it set for concerts last year, while Cal Expo has agreed to accept curfews that are earlier than it would prefer and monetary penalties when the curfews are violated.
Teen Says Boise's New Noise Ordinance Is Unfair (Apr. 28, 1997). The Idaho Statesman printed the following editorial from Janelle Wilson, a teenager in Boise, Idaho, regarding the city's new noise ordinance:
35-Year-Old Knoxville Noise Ordinance May Receive Update (Apr. 22, 1997). The Knoxville News-Sentinel reports that a 35-year-old noise ordinance, criticized by residents for being vague and inadequate to current needs, may soon be changed.
Goffstown, New Hampshire Holds Public Hearings In Hopes Of Controlling Residential And Car Stereo Noise Pollution (Apr. 19, 1997). The Union Leader reports Town Prosecutor Kerry Steckowych wrote noise prevention ordinances in response to complaints from citizens. The two most significant complaints were against the bass frequency from subwoofer speakers in cars and the disturbance of residential parties, according to Stechowych. The complaints were submitted to Town Administrator John Scruton, who submitted them to the police department. The town of Goffstown plans to discuss the proposed ordinances at a public hearing.
Louisiana District Considers Noise Ordinance to Control Loud Music With Profanity (Apr. 9, 1997). The Times-Picayune reports that the St. John the Baptist Parish (Louisiana) Council is considering changing the parish's noise ordinance in an attempt to control loud music that contains obscenities. No action was taken at a Tuesday Council meeting, but Assistant District Attorney Charles Lorio agreed to study the council's options in revising the noise ordinance.
Federal Judge Overturns Part of Louisiana City Noise Ordinance (Apr. 8, 1997). The Advocate reports that a federal judge Monday overturned part of the Baton Rouge, Louisiana city-parish ordinance limiting noise in public, saying the local law violated the constitutional rights of a street preacher who sought to use a bullhorn.
Noise Pollution Invades Airport Departure Gates (Oct. 26, 1996). In this opinion piece, author Adam Hochschild decries the lack of quiet in airport departure gates. For Hochschild, the sources of noise pollution are the continuously sounding television sets, mounted out of reach of anyone who would like to turn off the sound. Hochschild believes he is not alone in feeling annoyed by "force-fed TV," citing those travelers who would like to talk, read or work while waiting for their flights. He believes unwanted noise should be regulated. In public places, Hochschild likens the unwanted noise from TV to the pollution from cigarette smoke. But, the author notes that the noise from unwanted TV can't be sucked away like cigarette smoke by a good ventilation system. Many communities place restrictions on noise from jet skis, leaf blowers and snowmobiles. What about regulating the unwanted noise from television sets? With special rooms or designated areas for smokers, why not a special room in airports for TV watchers?
American Entertainment Introduces Young Audiences To Hearing Damage (Sep. 25, 1996). The Pacific Sun reports that digital technology has enabled movie producers and rock bands alike to increase the quality of sound their entertainment provides, but it has also inspired them to increase the volume as well. The government has no regulation regarding the sound level of movie or musical entertainment, and the affect of excessive noise on the human ear is usually not the priority of movie producers, movie-goers, rock bands, or rock fans. According to the American Speech, Language, and Hearing Association, 10 million Americans suffer from noise-induced hearing loss and 20 million are exposed to potentially damaging noise levels. Hearing loss has increased by 14% since 1971. Preventative and protective measures are just starting to be taken.
Enforceable Noise Ordinance Makes for Quieter Neighborhoods in Vermont College Town (Sep. 22, 1996). The Burlington Free Press reports that police are enforcing Burlington, Vermont's updated noise ordinance by patrolling neighborhoods and issuing fines for violations. According to this article, violators of the noise ordinance are mostly college-age people involved in off-campus parties. Burlington's noise ordinance prohibits noise from any party or social event that "interferes with the peace or health of members of the public or is audible through walls between units within the same building, from another property or from the street." The ordinance discourages Burlington police officers from simply giving a warning if they determine a noise violation has occurred. Penalties for a first offense range from $100 to $500.
Preventative and Protective Measures Needed Against Hearing Damage and Loss (Jun.1 1996). Electronic Musician reports that hearing damage and hearing loss can happen to young and elderly people alike. Hearing damage is permanent, yet usually preventable, provided that you are aware of how to protect your ears. Visiting a trained audiologist and using the proper ear protection can help prevent hearing damage, or help prevent further damage if some has already occurred. Musicians, their assistants, and anyone else exposed to repetitively loud noises need to take special precaution.
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Effects on Wildlife/Animals
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Residential and Community Noise
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Transportation Related Noise
Violence and Noise
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