Portland City Council approves noise regulation overhaul to enhance enforcement clarity

The Portland City Council held a special session on June 25, 2025, primarily focused on an ordinance aimed at reforming the city's noise regulation enforcement. The ordinance, identified as 2025-148, seeks to consolidate noise enforcement responsibilities under Title 18, moving away from the existing Title 14 provisions that have been criticized for their inconsistency and reliance on police enforcement.

Christopher Hare, a council policy analyst, presented the ordinance, which proposes the repeal of specific sections of the city code related to unlawful noise disturbances and the operation of sound-producing equipment. This change is intended to streamline noise regulation and improve fairness in enforcement, particularly benefiting local venues and artists.

Councilor Jamie Dunphy, who has been working with the music industry for over five years on this issue, emphasized the need for a more consistent approach to noise regulation. He noted that the current system has led to unfair circumstances due to the reliance on police for enforcement, which has increased as staffing in the noise office has decreased. Dunphy expressed hope that the ordinance would support a more effective noise control system that aligns with community needs.

The ordinance also mandates the city administrator to report on the collaboration between the noise program and Portland's music industry, focusing on compliance resources and the development of a self-reporting system to aid enforcement efforts.

Public testimony during the meeting included input from nine individuals, highlighting themes such as the need for clarity in noise enforcement and the importance of expert input in evaluating the relationship between the two titles. The council is expected to discuss the ordinance further in a second reading, with the aim of enhancing the effectiveness of noise regulation in Portland.