Shreveport Council Delays Action on Noise Ordinance

SHREVEPORT, LA - The Shreveport City Council has decided to wait at least 2 weeks before taking action on a new noise ordinance for the city. The panel voted 5-2 for a delay. Several Councilmembers say there needs to be more time to explain the proposed changes to the downtown club owners so they will know what is going to happen.

Under this proposed ordinance, businesses will have to have a separate permit to be allowed to play music outside that might impact neighboring businesses or homes. This would be in addition to the existing permit for an outdoor or rooftop area at a club.

This ordinance would impact the entire city and not just downtown Shreveport.

The Council is expected to take a final vote on this new noise ordinance at the October 10 meeting.

This new ordinance sets up specific decibel levels which would be allowed during certain hours. This measure also defines the entertainment district in downtown Shreveport as Cross Bayou on the north, Lake Street on the south, the Red River on the east and Market Street on the west. The decibel levels in the entertainment district would be a little bit different.

Who Will Enforce this Ordinance?

This ordinance calls for enforcement by a Noise Enforcement Officer who shall be an employee of the Shreveport Police Department and designated by the Chief of Police. This measure also creates the position of Noise Management Administrator (NMA), who shall be an employee of the City. The NMA is authorized to issue permits for
significant noise generators and shall be responsible for reviewing noise management
plans.

How Loud Can the Noise Be Under New Ordinance?

The sound level shall be measured at or within the receiving property line.

Residential property.

a. 55 dBA during daytime hours
b. 50 dBA during nighttime hours

Commercial property.

a. 60 dBA during daytime hours
b. 60 dBA during nighttime hours

Entertainment District

a. 7 AM – 11:59 PM – 65 dBA
b. 12 AM – 6:59 AM – 55 dBA

What Are the Fines for Violating the Ordinance?

Any one violating this new ordinance will be subject to a fine of not more than $500.00 or a term of imprisonment of not more than 30 days, or both for the initial offense. Upon conviction of a second offense, a fine of not more than $750.00 or a term of imprisonment of not more than 60 days, or both for the subsequent offense. Upon
conviction of a third offense, a fine of not more than $1,000.00 or a term of imprisonment of not more than 90 days, or both for the subsequent offense.

Further, the city may enforce this article through all civil remedies available, including, but not limited to injunctive relief. This new ordinance does not call for the suspension of alcohol permits.