FORT WORTH - Fort Worth city leaders are considering drastic changes to the municipality s noise ordinance.
Currently, the ordinance prohibits noise that is deemed unreasonably loud; sound that is 85 decibels or more. But under the proposed changes, set noise levels would be lowered for neighborhoods and non-residential areas.
This gives us the ability to look at it a little more objectively with a decibel meter and say, 'Yeah, this meets the threshold we're trying to set,' said Fort Worth Police Major Billy Cordell.
Monday, the city hosted a public meeting seeking public input and educating residents on proposed changes.
Under the new ordinance, decibel limits in neighborhoods would be 70 during the day 60 at night. Other amendments include an animal ordinance that prohibits dog or rooster from creating frequent, repetitive or continuous noise for ten minutes or longer.
Julie Gayle is one of the many Fort Worth residents who support a noise ordinance.
You know, noise is intrusive, she said. Nobody wants that, whether you're at work or at home.
Currently, you can get a fine of up $500 for being too loud.
Under the new ordinance, police would use a sound meter to measure the noise where there is a complaint. Proposed changes to the ordinance could go to the council for vote as early as March.
E-mail mmoore@wfaa.com
