How loud is too loud? That questions has been a big debate in Manatee County.

Bradenton’s Commission came to a decision on its noise ordinance last spring after months of debate—upsetting many business owners.

Now, Palmetto may be turning down the music. Last week, commissioners discussed adding a decibel limit to the city’s somewhat vague noise ordinance.  

Palmetto Police Chief Scott Tyler said how the ordinance is written now, officers can respond to noise complaints, but because there is no established decibel level how loud it too loud, there is not much they can do.

“Ultimately, if you’re sending a police officer out and her or she may need to take enforcement action, they need to have a law and ordinance behind them that’s enforceable,” Police Chief Tyler said.

Commissioners are on board with a noise level of about 60 decibels, when measured using one of the police department’s sound level meters.

Bay News 9’s Angie Angers used the device as she spoke and said her normal speaking voice ran a little bit over 70 decibels.

The idea of keeping things quiet across the city isn’t sitting well with everyone.

“I think it would be a disservice to the whole community,” Tammy Mitchell, a resident, said.

“I think it should be not loud, but enough where everybody can enjoy it,” Elie Orelien, a resident, said.

However, officials said the 60 decibel level likely won’t be a hard and fast rule.

The city will consider different regulations for certain businesses, school zones, and parks.

“We don’t want to inhibit the use of them, so that people say ‘no fun in Palmetto,’ that’s not the case and certainly none of the commissioners want that either,” Palmetto Mayor Shirley Groover Bryant said.

Since Palmetto is growing, city leaders say it is important to make the distinction now.

The noise ordinance will be discussed at the city’s next workshop later this month and then Palmetto will hold a public hearing before any final decision is made.