FENWICK ISLAND, Del. – The Fenwick Island Town Council will vote Friday on proposed updates to the town’s noise ordinance, which aim to establish clearer definitions and stricter enforcement for noise violations.
The changes would include expanded quiet hours, decibel-level limits, the requirement of permits for outdoor amplified music, and the use of new noise monitoring technology. If approved, the updates will take effect immediately.
Under the new regulations, quiet hours will begin at 10 p.m., an hour earlier than the current midnight start, and will run until 8 a.m. During non-quiet hours, noise levels will be capped at 65 decibels, while quiet hours will have a lower limit of 55 decibels.
Additionally, both residents and businesses would need permits to play amplified music or use outdoor sound devices. Law enforcement will use decibel-measuring equipment, including a smartphone app, to assess noise levels and issue fines for violations. The app will also be available to residents to monitor their own noise levels.
Fines for violating the ordinance will be set at $200 per offense. The council is expected to make a decision on the proposed updates during its meeting on Friday.
