East Deer adopts new noise ordinance

The East Deer commissioners have approved a new noise ordinance.

The ordinance, designed to provide greater clarity and specificity, sets decibel levels and offers guidelines on the hours of construction activity.

Previously, the township followed Allegheny County’s ordinance.

“There have been a few complaints and minor problems with contractors and with neighbors turning their stereos too loud at night,” said

Commissioners Chairman Tony Taliani when the ordinance passed Thursday night.

Under the new regulations, construction activity is permitted between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. For residential work, including leaf blowers and lawn mowers, the permitted hours are from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

According to Taliani, the noise ordinance was prompted, in part, by Pittsburgh Brewing Co. for the coming development project in Creighton. The project includes the construction of a large outdoor amphitheater that is expected to host live concerts. While an official opening date for the amphitheater has yet to be announced, the space currently is available for private event rentals.

Taliani said the ordinance will not hinder the brewery’s plans.

“I think this new noise ordinance will help them,” he said. “They will know what their standards are going to be and what they are dealing with.”

Pittsburgh Brewing Co. officials did not respond to a call for comment on Friday.

He said the brewing company already had conducted noise tests in the vicinity. Their sound levels complied with Allegheny County’s standards.

The updated ordinance does make an exception for outdoor events, provided that organizers give notice at least seven days in advance and that the event concludes before midnight.

Violations of the noise ordinance will be subject to fines, with a first-time offense incurring penalties of up to $250 and subsequent violations carrying fines of up to $500.