Tampa City Council passes new noise ordinance to limit amplified sound after midnight
TAMPA, Fla. - City leaders in Tampa have received plenty of complaints about loud music in the downtown area in recent months and things are about to get a lot quieter. After hours of debate on Thursday, the city council approved a new noise ordinance that means amplified sound will be limited city-wide after midnight.
In recent years, there have been new bars and restaurants popping up in areas like downtown Tampa, which is a positive sign of growth. But, residents who live nearby say it's noisier.
Under the ordinance, police would no longer be required to give a five-minute warning before citing a business. The city believes that would strengthen enforcement in situations where businesses repeatedly don't comply.
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In Ybor City and around Amalie Arena, the proposal would lower noise limits throughout the night. So, the later it gets, the lower the volume.
"There would be an element that takes the measure of decibel level down beginning at 1 a.m.," explained Carole Post, administrator for Development and Economic Opportunity in Tampa. "So, currently it's up to 85 decibels, 24/7. We’re looking to step that down from 1 a.m. to 3 a.m."
The city said it is trying to balance the competing interests between businesses and residents.
The new noise ordinance will take effect in six months.