20260204-002: Sound Enforcement Recommendation — original pdf

Recommendation

. RECOMMENDATION TO AUSTIN CITY COUNCIL Environmental Commission Recommendation Number: 20260204-002 Sound Enforcement by Ordinance WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission was presented an update on the Sound Ordinance and Enforcement and that Austin Development Services enforces sound ordinances; and WHEREAS, the Environmental Commission recognizes the challenges to enforcement when Austin Police, Austin Development Services, and Austin Arts, Culture, Music & Entertainment (which are three separate entities) are responsible for enforcing in various sections of the city and certain code violations. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the Environmental Commission supports the efforts of Austin Development Services’ sound ordinance enforcement and recommends the following: a. City owned properties prioritize using electric maintenance and cleaning equipment versus gas powered equipment for outdoor landscaping b. Better communication or consolidation of the three enforcement entities c. Work on creating a public dashboard where residents can see data regarding sound permits and complaints d. Require construction companies to keep decibel meters onsite to ensure compliance with sound ordinance e. Explore creating an equity-focused framework that examines noise violation consequences for repeat offenders. Date of Approval: February 4, 2026 Motioned By: Harris Qureshi Seconded By: Jennifer Bristol Vote: 9-0 For: Jennifer Bristol, Haris Qureshi, Richard Brimer, Justin Fleury, Mar Moretta-Urdiales, David Sullivan, Mariana Krueger, Annie Fierro, and Allison Morrison Against: None . Abstain: None Off the dais: None Absent: Isabella Changsut and Martin Luecke Attest: _____________________________________________ Jennifer Bristol, Chair