The noise control ordinance, presented to the Board by Supervising Code Enforcement Officer Robbie Irvin, is intended to limit excessive noise which could "adversely affect the health, safety and welfare of the citizens" of Dawson County, according to county officials.
According to Irvin, "In a growing county there are many noises. Some are pleasant sounds while others may be distracting and uncomfortable. As population densities increase, the amount of buffered space between citizens decreases. This can lead to noise spillage onto adjoining properties and thus increased complaints about noise."
The ordinance focuses on limiting duration of noises, such as continuous sounding of motor vehicle horns or other signaling devices. The ordinance also addresses limits on the times audible noise can be produced and the distance from which noises can be heard. For instance, sounds produced from operation of equipment used in construction work or sources such as radios or loudspeakers within 1,500 linear feet of any residential or noise sensitive area would be restricted between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.
Additionally, sounds emitted from radios, TVs or similar devices should not be produced on the public right of way in such a manner as to be plainly audible to anyone other than the player or operator.
Primary enforcement of the ordinance will be provided by the Dawson County Sheriff's office, as well as Dawson County Code Enforcement.
"This ordinance, if adopted, will provide county enforcement personnel with the tools necessary to aid those whose quality of life has been impacted by noise pollution," Irvin said. "Although many people express concern about new regulations, I am pleased to say that this ordinance takes every available precaution to prevent over-regulation by the county."
Irvin said, "The proposed ordinance allows people to continue to enjoy their hobbies, outdoor interests and get-togethers while providing some relief to those who inadvertently may suffer from unwanted noise. It is not the county's intent to prohibit anyone from reasonably enjoying their land, but to ask folks to be courteous to their neighbors."
He continued, "If property owners would remember their neighbor's perspective before rehearsing the last set with their garage band at 2 a.m. or sending a construction crew out to a job site at 5 a.m. on a Sunday we could avoid many unnecessary complaints and ill will amongst neighborhoods. We here at Dawson County Government want to ensure that everyone can continue to enjoy the outstanding quality of life that we have all come to appreciate from this beautiful county."
The proposal is due to be returned to the Board of Commissioners for consideration at the next work session, Monday, November 24. If approved, public hearings would be scheduled prior to adoption.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2008/11/215284