Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Noise Ordinance topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Anderson City Council approves first reading of updated noise ordinance
Summary
The Anderson City Council approved on first reading a revised noise ordinance that broadens prohibited noises, sets construction-hour exemptions and emphasizes officer discretion backed by body-camera evidence; staff said the maximum municipal fine is $500 plus assessments.
Anderson City — The Anderson City Council approved on first reading on Sept. 22 a revision to Chapter 42 that updates the city’s noise regulations and clarifies prohibited sounds, exemptions and enforcement procedures.
City staff told the council the amended ordinance modernizes the city code and lists specific noises that can be prohibited “of such character, intensity, or duration, which interferes with the comfortable enjoyment of persons occupying, owning, or controlling nearby properties,” according to staff presentation. The revision names motorized-vehicle muffler failures, engine revving, loudspeakers and harassing noises among examples of enforceable disturbances. “Motorized vehicles, mufflers are required. You can't have an ineffective muffler,” one staff presenter said during the discussion.
The ordinance preserves typical construction-hour exemptions for public-works and private construction (roughly 7 a.m.–9 p.m. Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–7 p.m. Saturday and later Sunday starts) and creates a permitting route for organized street performances and special events. Staff said emergency alarms, aircraft, and lawful operation of vehicles and rail remain exempt.
On enforcement, staff described a fact-specific approach for officers focusing on volume, intensity, whether the noise is usual or unusual, and zoning context. City staff also said officers’ body-worn cameras and GPS location data will be used to document incidents if cases go to municipal court. Chief Stewart said roll-call training and legal-standards briefings will be provided across shifts to help ensure consistent enforcement.
The council debated officer discretion and whether a formal grace period is appropriate; staff said because the ordinance updates an existing rule the expectation is continued officer discretion (warnings are possible) rather than automatic punitive action. Staff noted the municipal court maximum penalty is $500 plus state assessments; how fines are ultimately set is typically determined by the court.
The council voted to approve the ordinance on first reading by unanimous voice vote. Additional public hearings or a second reading will be required before final adoption.
