Norwalk — The Common Council unanimously adopted a rewritten noise ordinance (Chapter 68) on Dec. 9 that city officials say makes enforcement more practical while preserving permitted exceptions.

Council member Heather Dunn, who led drafting work with police and the health department, described the ordinance as “a really good opportunity … to hear from the residents” and said the rewrite cuts complex measurement procedures so officers can make field determinations without lengthy ambient noise tables. “So it makes it easier for them to do the job,” Dunn said, adding the first violation starts with a $50 fine to allow tracking and escalation for repeat offenders.

Police Chief Walsh said the prior ordinance required multiple ambient readings and specialized equipment that often made enforcement ineffective. Under the new rules, officers may take a single noise-meter reading near the suspected source (outside) or within three feet of an interior wall when investigating indoor complaints. “It cuts that process out,” the chief said, characterizing the change as a process improvement rather than a major change in decibel thresholds.

Council members discussed outreach to affected businesses, particularly on Washington Street, and noted waivers remain available for permitted activities and one-off events via the health director. The measure passed unanimously.

What happens next: Staff will publish the revised ordinance language and undertake outreach to affected commercial corridors and the public to explain enforcement practice changes.