What is the City of Appleton noise ordinance?

Noise is regulated under Chapter 12, Article IV, of the Appleton Municipal code. This article applies to the control of noise originating within the corporate limits of the City. In general, no person shall make or cause to be made any loud, disturbing or unnecessary sounds or noises such as may tend to annoy or disturb a reasonable person in or about any public street, alley or park or any private residence.

 When do I need a variance from the noise ordinance?

There may be times or events planned where strict adherence to the noise ordinance may be difficult or unreasonable due to special circumstances. When it is anticipated that this will occur, the appropriate course of action is to apply to the Board of Health for the granting of a variance from the particular requirements of the noise ordinance. Keep in mind this is a process that does take some time to complete!

 What must I do to obtain a noise variance?

The first step early in the process is to recognize that a variance may be needed to prevent substantial curtailment of the planned event. A letter requesting a variance from the noise ordinance must be sent to the Health Officer at the Appleton Health Department, 100 North Appleton Street, Appleton, WI, 54911. You may also fax a request to 920-832-5853. The letter or fax should include the location, date and times requested, equipment involved and the name of the person in charge who will be present while the noise is produced. The Health Officer will add your request to the agenda of the next Board of Health meeting. The Board meets at 7:00 AM on the first Wednesday of each month in room 6-A at City Hall. An agenda will be sent to you.

 The second step is to appear at the Board of Health meeting where you will be given an opportunity to be heard. You may be asked to provide evidence on how you plan to ensure noise will be controlled at your event. The Board recommendation will then be presented at the next Common Council meeting for their approval. Although you are not required to be present at this meeting, you may wish to attend.

 Finally, after the City Council meeting, you will be notified of the decision. A letter will be sent to you from the Health Officer indicating whether your noise variance request has been granted or denied.

 This letter of approval from the Health Officer should be available to present to City officials, who may be called to your event in case nuisance calls are received.