For an Ongoing Illegal Noise Complaint...

If this is an ongoing problem, or one where the noise stops prior to officer's arrival, you will need to gather evidence for the City's prosecutor who will consider filing a case. This can be done by documenting the chronic noise problem. The better the quality of the documentation and evidence you collect, the better your chances are for successful prosecution and ultimately resolution.

First, begin by using a tape recorder. In a normal speaking voice, identify yourself, give your address, the type of noise problem and its location, noting the time, date and where you are located in relation to that noise.

Example:
"This is John Doe. I reside at 1111 2nd Avenue N.E. It is approximately 1:00 am, on June 25, 1996. The neighbor's barking dog is located at 1113 2nd Avenue N.E. I am currently standing in my living room, which is situated on the north side of my house. My house is approximately 25 feet from the neighbor's back yard."

Then, take additional recordings in several public areas or other areas in your house, again noting your location in relationship to the noise location. Remember not to trespass. You will need to do this to substantiate your complaint. You may also want to "time stamp" your recording by having a radio or TV show on that would document the day and time of your information gathering endeavor. You may want to note each incident on a calendar or on a "noise log" as well as stating it on the recording.

After you have taped several independent incidents, call and have an officer respond to make a report. The officer will take your tape as evidence. This is important because the tape recording is more convincing in corroboration with witness testimony than either one submitted alone.