ST. PETE BEACH, Fla. (WFLA) — St. Pete Beach City Commissioners are considering a controversial noise ordinance that would spark major changes to the beachfront barrier island’s entertainment scene.
“If we had to stop live music, we’d pretty much go out of business. It’s an intricate part of our business. We’re known for live music and it’s our bread and butter,” said Matt Vario, the owner of the Toasted Monkey.
In January, commissioners voted 3-2 to continue discussions on the issue, which they say comes from dozens of noise complaints via nearby residents. The following month, dozens came out to protest.
The ordinance, as it is drafted now, would create “quiet hours” from 7 p.m. – 7 a.m., prohibiting noise that can be heard 200 feet away from businesses, restaurants, bars, and homes. In addition, “exceeding ambient background noise” by 5 decibels at nearby properties would be in violation.
“To shut everything down by seven is just… I mean, come on. It’s unreasonable. Most of these bars and restaurants don’t even kick up until after that amount of time. All the people that work here, they have families to feed,” said Aaron Motta, a St. Pete Beach resident.
There are exceptions to the proposal, including government-sanctioned events, emergencies, and natural disasters, according to the City of St. Pete Beach.
“We still have hope that enough pressure will get them to realize that, hey, this is not what the community wants. This is what the minority wants, and that our jobs aren’t just to make new rules. Our jobs are to get this beach humming and back to where it should be,” Vario said.
District 2 Commissioner Lisa Robinson told News Channel 8 the ordinance is currently undergoing tweaks after substantial community feedback during a February meeting. It is not scheduled for a discussion or vote in the near future. Regardless, if the ordinance passes, Commissioner Robinson says it will be under a trial basis and could be changed in the future.
