Village of Warwick approves noise ordinance and ATV law

Warwick-The Village of Warwick now has a noise ordinance and an All Terrain Vehicle law, severely limiting operation of ATVs within the village limits. The noise ordinance prohibits "unreasonable, unnecessary, disturbing, excessive, or offensive noises" within the village. Acts considered prohibited include: any unnecessary noise between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m., dogs barking for more than 15 minutes, alarm system noise longer than 15 minutes, noise from a stereo that is heard more than 60 feet from its source, construction noise and the operation of power equipment between certain hours, automobile horns, and shouting on public streets in order to sell merchandise. Anyone violating this law could be fined $350 for each violation or spend 15 days in jail, or both. The fines increase if a person repeats the offense in less than six months. Trustee Stephen Pascal said the 15-minute time period for the dog barking or alarm sounding is sufficient because the violation must be witnessed for that long by the police officer. Trustee Bill Iurato suggested changing the time limits of the noise ordinance on Friday and Saturday to 1 a.m. instead of 11 p.m., but the board and members of the public disagreed. "I think 11 p.m. is a fair time," said Sheila Scheurman. "I understand people want to have fun but we're tired by the end of the week." The new law regulating ATV use in the village prohibits ATVs in any residential zone within the village, on public or private property without consent of the village or the property owner, near any public roadway, and operated in a negligent manner. The law states that kids under 16 cannot operate an ATV at all. Originally, the law prohibited ATVs in the Residential One zone, but the board included all residential zones-R2 and MR, as well. These laws allow police officers discretion, according to village attorney Michael Meth. The officers do not have to write up the complaint immediately, he said. Instead, it gives officers mediation power.