Sweden residents will have a chance to let the town board know their feelings regarding a proposed noise ordinance at a public hearing to be held October 9 at 7:15 p.m. at the town hall.

Councilwoman Pat Connors has drafted the proposed ordinance, borrowing heavily from similar ordinances in the villages of Brockport and Hilton. The board decided to pursue local legislation because of increased complaints from residents over disturbing and excessive noises.

The proposal sets a "quiet time" of 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. Excluded during these hours are unnecessary noises that may be "detrimental to the life or health of any individual or contrary to public welfare." Some common complaints received by the board - construction work beginning or ending late and loud, late-night parties - would be covered by this section.

Dogs that bark or alarms that ring continuously for more than 15 minutes would be in violation of the code. Motor vehicles that emit excessive noise audible at a distance of 25 feet would be in violation, as would any type of sound system that projects noise 40 feet from its source or over a property line.

Some exceptions include town sponsored or town approved celebrations; devices operated by an organization chartered by the state (i.e. church bells), utility work, commercial property activities already in existence and agricultural activities.

The penalty for violating the noise ordinance would be not less than $100 and not more than $250 for each offense. The code would be enforced by the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department and New York State Police acting on complaints from residents.

The full text of the proposed ordinance is available for review at the Sweden Town Hall, 18 State Street, during regular business hours.