Cape City Council looks for middle ground on noise ordinance

CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO (KRCU) - Cape Girardeau businesses will soon have to pay a little more attention to volume when they play music outdoors.

City Council is attempting to find middle ground on the debate over noise by requiring downtown businesses to apply for an outdoor music venue permit.

After Monday evening’s council session, Police Chief Carl Kinnison says this will set limitations for noise levels on an individual basis.

"The permit process would actually allow businesses to play music outdoors and also set some limits on that noise. If the business establishment went beyond those limits then that permit could be pulled," Kinnison said.

The application will give the city a better idea of each outdoor venue and prevent a one-size fits all noise ordinance that might alienate businesses.

Businesses must apply for the permits seasonally which will allow the city to make changes if necessary.

In other news, the city council approved an engineering study that may lead to co-ownership between the city and Cape County of the former federal courthouse.

Matthew Caldwell, KRCU

Posted in: Cape Girardeau City Council,Carl Kinnison,Matthew Caldwell,noise ordinance