Ordinance Amending Chapter 46 of the City Code Relating to Noise (Second Reading)

The City Council is considering amendments to Chapter 46 of the City Code, which governs noise regulations. These amendments are proposed in two phases. Phase 1, presented for approval, focuses on public assembly facilities like amphitheaters, stadiums, and outdoor sports/entertainment venues with capacities of 1,000 or more (stadiums 5,000+). It establishes a maximum amplified sound threshold of 85 dB(A), measured from the complainant's property line, in effect Sunday through Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. Motorsports events at venues like Bowman Gray Stadium are exempted from this decibel threshold. The amendments also expand the list of exempted activities and integrate language from the County noise ordinance directly into the City Code. Violations are classified as a Class 3 misdemeanor, subject to fines of up to $500.00, with the venue operator held responsible for violations by tenants or guests. Phase 2, to be addressed later, will establish decibel thresholds for the Central Business District, commercial, and residential areas. The General Government Committee approved these Phase 1 amendments unanimously on February 9, 2026.