Officials Table Controversial Hingham Noise Law Proposal

Concern about a proposed Hingham noise ordinance spread quickly around the Web this week, ahead of a Board of Selectmen meeting in which residents packed the room and officials decided to table the measure.

The proposal, in part, would impose a $100 fine for noise levels exceeding 55 decibels, a level that concerned residents because it could mean banning lawn mowers, snow blowers and even loud conversations, CBS Local reported. 

Thursday night, selectmen continued their discussion of the draft law to a future date to gather more information, WATD reported. 

"Hingham Police Chief Michael Peraino said that right now police first issue a warning to violators and if they have to return, they then have charge them with disturbing the peace," according to WATD.

"Peraino said it’s better to impose a fine than to charge people and drag them into court over a noise complaint."

The draft law has been posted on the town website. 

The law would create individual maximum sound levels in residential areas in the morning and evening hours and during the week and on weekends. 

It also establishes fines for violating the ordinance, ranging from $100 for a first offense to $300 for a third and subsequent. 

Exemptions to the law include law enforcement and fire vehicles, public address systems at sanctioned events, and snow removal equipment noises.

See the full draft here (PDF).

What do you think about the proposal? Tell us in the comments below.