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Council deadlocks on updated noise ordinance after members warn it would criminalize routine behavior
Summary
After extended debate on criminal penalties and a 'plainly audible' enforcement standard, Lansing City Council declined to adopt the proposed noise ordinance (final vote 4–4). A related amendment to make violations civil infractions failed 3–5.
Lansing City Council declined to adopt a comprehensive rewrite of the city’s noise ordinance on Dec. 15 after lengthy debate about enforcement mechanics and potential criminal penalties.
The proposed update would have removed decibel thresholds and replaced them with a plainly audible standard measured at specified distances and times of day, and included misdemeanor penalties (up to 90 days) for certain violations. Council Member Jackson argued the draft would criminalize common conduct and…
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