The City of Cheney has adopted a nuisance ordinance that makes it unlawful for any person to cause or allow noise to originate from any property that is a public disturbance.Penalties for violations of this ordinance can range from a $250.00 civil infraction to a misdemeanor conviction with up to a $1,000 fine and 90 days in jail. The noise ordinance also mandates cooperation with the police.It is a misdemeanor crime to refuse or fail to cooperate with an officer investigating a noise complaint if you are associated with the vehicle or property the complaint has been made on.
This flyer is intended to serve as a general summary of the law to help educate the citizens of Cheney and their guests.Following are some of the potential violations.
Potential Violations – 24 Hours a Day
Loud music originating from either property or a vehicle.Any amplified music that can be heard more than 50 feet from to property or vehicle that it originates from is a potential violation.
Car alarms that are malfunctioning and sound on a regular basis for reasons other than their intended purpose can be considered a nuisance.
Automotive repair within a residentially zoned area that is unreasonably disturbing the peace.
Potential Violations –
Yelling, shouting, whistling, singing, etc. on or near public streets.
Loud parties or social gatherings that are audible more than 50 feet from the property they are held at.
Construction and industrial noises that are not necessary due to an emergency or previously granted a variance by the city council.
Home maintenance noises such as lawn mowers, chain saws, blowers, hammers, etc unless they are being used in conjunction with an emergency.
Exemptions to the noise ordinance can be granted upon written application to the Police Chief.EWU, CheneySchool District, Railroads, normal business operations and events sanctioned by the City of Cheney are automatically exempt from the noise ordinance.Snow removal equipment any time 2 inches of snow has fallen is also exempt.
