Council reviews expansion of noise ordinance to cover non‑vehicle disturbances and clarify hours for amplified outdoor music

The committee reviewed draft revisions to the city's noise ordinance intended to expand the law beyond vehicle noise to address other disturbances such as loud music, revving engines and burnouts, and to clarify how permitting for outdoor events interacts with the rule.

Staff told the committee that the current ordinance "only pertains to vehicle noise," and that the proposed update would expand the definition to cover other sources of noise that residents find disruptive. Councilors discussed what measurement distance should be used for enforcement (staff referenced 50 feet as a common standard) and whether a longer or shorter distance would be more practical for police enforcement.

The draft also clarifies time windows. Staff noted that amplified outdoor music is typically managed so it does not run between midnight and 9:00 a.m. except when a special event or council‑approved permit applies. "Outdoor music and amplified noise is midnight to 9:00 a.m.," a staff presenter said while explaining current expectations for venue permits and special events.

Councilors asked for additional time to review the draft language, asked staff to consider how the police department will enforce distance‑based rules and the practical implications for bars and permitted downtown events, and suggested bringing the ordinance back for further discussion at the next meeting cycle rather than immediate action.

No ordinance changes were adopted at the committee meeting; staff requested feedback and suggested further review before bringing a final draft for council action.