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Quiet Please!

City Cracking Down on Noise Ordinance

Andy Hart

April 09, 2009

If you’re into really loud music, Hartford may no longer be the place for you. During the first quarter of this year, 171 noise ordinance violations were issued. In that same time frame last year, only eight noise infractions were issued. This 2000 percent increase reflects a concerted effort by the City of Hartford to reduce intrusive noise through education and increased enforcement.

“Being respectful of our friends and neighbors helps improve the quality of life in our city. Any noise that is plainly audible at a distance of 100 feet from its source is considered too loud. 100 feet is the distance between public light poles. By enforcing the Noise Ordinance, we will help make our communities more livable and more vibrant,” says Mayor Eddie Perez.

Prohibited noise levels and/or activities include:

1. Noise from a person’s premises/building/yard etc. including impulse noises (short duration).

2. Vehicle horns or other audible signal devises from a motor vehicles unless used as a warning to prevent or avoid a traffic accident

3. Advertising – no person shall use a drum, bell or other instrument or devise for the purpose of attracting attention to a performance, show or sale or to display or advertisement of merchandise

4. Motor vehicle and recreational noise is subject to an infraction unless the noise is from a loud amplification devise or similar equipment and a permit has been obtained.

Penalties include community service, a fine up to $90.00 or a jail sentence up to 25 days. The complete ordinance can be found in the Municipal Code Chapter 23 Section 23-1 through 23-8 that was most recently amended in January of last year.