Parma Heights council advances proposed noise ordinance on power equipment
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Summary
At a Feb. 27 work session, the Parma Heights City Council reviewed a draft noise ordinance (Section 648.17) that sets an 80-decibel limit for power equipment, clarifies a snow-emergency exception for snow-removal gear, and agreed to place the measure on the next council meeting agenda for further consideration.
Parma Heights — The Parma Heights City Council discussed a proposed noise ordinance for power equipment at a Feb. 27 work session and agreed to move the draft forward for consideration at the next council meeting, Council President Tom Rounds said.
The council reviewed draft Section 648.17, which council members described as including clearer definitions for "domestic power tools" and an increase of the allowable limit to 80 decibels. "Does this look like what we discussed? If there is anything that you don't think is there, or shouldn't be included?" Council President Tom Rounds asked as he sought feedback from members.
Councilman Stavole asked whether the draft’s exception for snow-removal equipment — phrased as an allowance "except during a snow emergency within the city" — refers specifically to a police-declared emergency. Rounds replied that the exception would apply when the city calls a parking ban and a snow emergency is in effect: "If it snows but it's not considered an emergency then it should be quiet," Rounds said.
Councilwoman Walsh said she had no questions and welcomed the clearer definitions, adding, "I see we increased to 80 decibels." Councilwoman Durichko said she appreciated keeping the snow-emergency carve-out and the definition of domestic power tools, which she said answered many questions. Councilwoman DeSouza said the draft included the items the council had asked to be added. Councilwoman Maruschak and Councilman Haase added they had no further comments.
Rounding out the discussion, Rounds thanked residents who raised the issue and said the council would proceed to place the draft ordinance on the next regular meeting agenda for formal consideration. No formal vote was taken at the work session; the item was advanced by consensus. The work session adjourned at 6:20 p.m.
Next steps: the ordinance language in draft Section 648.17 will appear on the next Parma Heights City Council meeting agenda for formal action and possible vote.