DuPage County considers new noise ordinance for unincorporated West Chicago areas

The DuPage County Judicial and Public Safety Committee convened on April 1, 2025, to discuss the introduction of a new noise ordinance aimed at addressing complaints from residents in unincorporated areas, particularly in West Chicago. The ordinance is a response to ongoing issues with excessive noise from outdoor parties that have been reported to last until the early morning hours.

Committee member Shorze highlighted the challenges faced by residents due to the lack of a specific noise ordinance that could effectively manage such disturbances. He noted that while there are existing regulations for industrial noise, they do not adequately cover residential complaints. Following discussions with the state's attorney's office, a draft ordinance was prepared, which proposes fines for excessive noise occurring between 10 PM and 7 AM if it can be heard from 100 feet away from a residential structure.

The proposed ordinance outlines a tiered fine structure, starting at $100 for the first offense and escalating to $1,000 for repeated violations. It is designed to be enforceable without the need for specialized equipment, relying instead on the ability of law enforcement to hear the noise from a reasonable distance. The ordinance also includes exceptions for certain types of noise, such as church bells and permitted events.

Committee members expressed support for the ordinance, recognizing the need for a tool that law enforcement can use to address noise complaints effectively. The sheriff's office indicated that the ordinance would not overburden their resources and would be manageable within their existing operations.

The timeline for implementing the ordinance is expected to be swift, with staff indicating that it could be finalized within two weeks. This is particularly relevant as the summer season approaches, which typically sees an increase in outdoor gatherings and parties.

In conclusion, the proposed noise ordinance represents a proactive step by DuPage County to enhance community standards and address resident concerns about noise disturbances in unincorporated areas. The committee plans to review the ordinance further in upcoming meetings, with the goal of enacting it promptly to ensure residents have the necessary protections in place for the summer months.