City passes new noise ordinances

The Shelton City Council on Tuesday unanimously approved new and amended noise ordinances that outlaw sounds of repetitive squealing tires and screeching car engines, continuous noise from pets and off-hours construction.

The council gave preliminary approval to the ordinances at its Feb. 15 meeting. The rules go into effect Sunday.

No one from the public or the council commented on the changes.

The city’s current noise ordinances were adopted in 2006. The council discussed the proposed additions and changes Nov. 23 at a study session.

The laws are aimed at decreasing noise in residential areas between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. The noise must be “plainly audible” across a property line, or 50 feet from the source, whichever is less, to be considered an offense.

Following a complaint for the first offense, the violator will receive an oral or written warning from law enforcement. A second offense is a civil infraction with a fine of $125. For a third offense, the violator will be guilty of a misdemeanor with a maximum penalty of 90 days in jail or a fine of $1,000, or both.

City-approved special events, such as Forest Festival and fireworks, are not affected by the ordinances.