July 26, 2006
Mayor's Press Office

The Chicago City Council passed an ordinance today that will replace the City's existing noise ordinance. While it does not add any new types of regulated noise the modification strengthens, and clarifies this section of the code. The revision will clarify the ordinance's provisions for regulated businesses, aldermanic staff and citizens and generally result, in an improved quality of life in Chicago neighborhoods.

"We understand that there is a fine balance between residents' quality of life and the rights of industries to conduct business. This ordinance strikes a balance between the needs of businesses to operate and the rights of Chicagoans to live in tranquil neighborhoods," said Mayor Richard M. Daley.

Outdated provisions, which included more than 100 different noise level standards, have been replaced with far fewer standards most of which will no longer require expensive and technical noise readings. As a result the ordinance will be easier for Department of Environment inspectors and police officers on the street to enforce.

The ordinance has been strengthened in order to more fully ensure compliance.

Fine amounts are now $300 for a first offense, $500 for a second offense and $1,000 for third and subsequent offenses compared to the previous $100 to $500 range. The City is also requiring repeat and egregious violators to submit compliance plans.