Southold likely to pass noise ordinance

Southold residents are looking forward to some peace and quiet.

For the first time, Southold police will be able to write citations against businesses and homeowners that generate loud noises when a new ordinance -- expected to be passed at a July 19 meeting -- takes effect.

While Southold normally is a bucolic town, residents say there are pockets -- usually around some restaurants and vacation homes -- where noise has disturbed their quality of life.

"We think this is a good start," said Ruth Ann Bramson, resident and past president of the East Marion Community Association, which has been fighting for a noise ordinance.

Southold would be the last Long Island town to enact a noise law. Fines would range from $500 to $2,500.

The proposed law has noise levels that cannot be exceeded: From 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., it prohibits airborne or amplified sound in excess of 65 decibels; from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m., in excess of 50 decibels. On Fridays and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., in excess of 65 decibels, and 11 p.m. to 7 a.m., in excess of 50 decibels.

A washing machine or air conditioner has a level of 50 to 75 decibels. Airplane takeoff is 140 decibels, town research shows. Police will be equipped with decibel readers.

Because Southold has a large farming community, the proposed law excludes noises from agricultural machinery and wineries -- excepting recreational uses such as weddings and dances on premises.

"There is a myth that this is being driven by wineries," said Supervisor Scott Russell. "With a few exceptions, they have been keeping to their own noise codes."

Steve Bate, executive director of the Long Island Wine Council, said the group endorses the ordinance.