OAKLAND (AP) — Sssshhhhhhh! Don’t make too much “unnecessary noise” in the Maine town of Oakland.
The Town Council gave final approval Tuesday to an ordinance that creates stiff penalties for residents who are too loud.
The ordinance, which takes effect immediately, forbids causing annoyance to others by intentionally or recklessly making “loud and unreasonable noises” after having been ordered by police to stop.
The Morning Sentinel (http://bit.ly/1HALuBD ) reported that violators face fines starting at $100 for a first offense, up to $1,000 for fourth and subsequent offenses.
The ordinance bans some noises at all hours, and some between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. It applies to electronics, commercial vehicles, recreational vehicles including snowmobiles and ATVs, and automobile noise including spinning tires and modified exhausts.
One councilor dissented, questioning the constitutionality of the ordinance.
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