Greendale Considering New, More Specific Noise Ordinance

GREENDALE, WI — Greendale officials are considering a revamping of the village's noise ordinances, in a move that would make the local ordinances more specific.

"This Ordinance is only enforceable with our Municipal boundary," Village Manager Todd Michaels said in a memo to the Board. "It cannot be enforced on persons or property owners in the City of Franklin, the City of Greenfield, or the Village of Hales Corners. Staff does not believe the draft Ordinance will increase the limitations on any activities currently being done within the Village."

According to village documents, the proposed ordinance would now specify the exact noise threshold for different types of noise, as well as a varied set of hours for several types of noise.

Under the proposed ordinance, village officials will break noise types into four categories: impulsive noise, intermittent noise, continuous noise and perpetual noise. Each category of noise carries with it different noise thresholds and different allowable hours in which the noise can be made.

Under the proposed ordinance, a variety of noise-generating activities such as the use of construction equipment, commercial power equipment, and heavy-duty loading or unloading would not be allowed between 8 p.m. and 7 a.m. in the village.

The proposed ordinance would make allowances for emergency construction work, residential snow removal, emergency public alerts, parades and festivals, as well as athletic and cultural events.

Greendale officials will consider the proposed ordinance changes Tuesday night at the Village Board meeting.