Police are stepping up checks and enforcement of amplified sound regulations in Anguilla, warning that breaches could result in fixed penalties or prosecution.
Officers will focus on premises operating amplified music without the required permit and vehicles from which amplified sound can be heard beyond the distance permitted by law.
The move comes after the Royal Anguilla Police Force (RAPF) received an increasing number of complaints from members of the public about excessive amplified music.
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In a public notice on 14 September, police said it recognises that music, entertainment and social events are an important part of life in Anguilla.
“However, everyone has a responsibility to ensure that their activities do not unreasonably interfere with others and that they comply with the law,” it added.
The Sound Amplification (Restriction) Act regulates amplified sound from both premises and vehicles.
The law prohibits amplified sound from premises that unreasonably disturbs or annoys people in neighbouring premises unless it is operated under an appropriate permit.
A permit for amplified sound can be issued by the police commissioner or an authorised deputy commissioner.
Applications must be made in writing in advance and include the date, location, person responsible, duration and reason for the sound.
Amplifying or transmitting sound without a permit, or breaching the conditions of a permit could result in a fine of EC$2,000.
“Where the terms or conditions of a permit are breached, liability may extend both to the person causing the amplification and to the person who obtained the permit,” police said.
It is also an offence to play amplified or transmitted sound from a vehicle on a public road if it can be heard more than 50 feet (about 15 metres) from the vehicle.
The legislation provides an exception for sound transmitted from a vehicle participating in a cultural pageant.
Offences are listed under the provisions of the Vehicles and Road Traffic Act, with a fixed penalty of $300.
“The RAPF has sought to deal with these matters proportionately and through engagement and education wherever appropriate,” police said.
“However, the number of recent complaints indicates that greater compliance is required.”
Police will be commencing more robust checks and enforcement in relation to amplified sound and may take enforcement action, including the use of fixed penalties and prosecution before the court.
“The purpose of this enforcement activity is not to prevent people from enjoying music or entertainment,” the notice added.
“It is to ensure a reasonable balance between that enjoyment and the right of residents and others to enjoy their homes and places of work without unreasonable disturbance.”
The force is asking for the cooperation of premises owners, event organisers, DJs, motorists and the wider community in ensuring compliance with the law.
