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Highlands adopts decibel-based noise ordinance after residents press for measurement, enforcement changes
Summary
The Borough of Highlands adopted O-25-9, a decibel-based noise ordinance, after extended public comment urging measurement at the sound source and faster enforcement; council said the model 'D' template constrains measurement standards but agreed to pursue equipment/training options.
The Borough of Highlands Mayor and Council voted Sept. 3, 2025, to adopt O-25-9, an ordinance establishing decibel-based sound-level standards and authorizing the use of certified county decibel readers to enforce noise limits. The ordinance passed on its second and final reading following an extended public comment period during which residents urged changes to how and where sound is measured.
Residents including Dan Muro raised concerns that the model ordinance measures at the complainant’s property rather than at the noise source and cautioned that reliance on county staff could delay enforcement for live, ongoing disturbances. "I would recommend that you drastically shorten that time and expect that, hey, like if you're in violation that you are going to need corrective action very quickly," Muro said, urging a…
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