Spotlight 92-2504081

The Miami City Commission will vote Thursday on a proposal to allow heavy machinery and other noise-generating equipment on construction sites for an additional two hours each weekday.

Under the change, construction-related noise would be permitted Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. – an hour earlier and an hour later than under the existing code. Saturday’s hours of 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. would remain unchanged.

The new rule would apply anywhere in the city, including single-family neighborhoods. 

The proposal also would remove the threat of criminal prosecution for repeat and other egregious violations of the city’s noise ordinance. While fines would increase, enforcement would be handled administratively outside the legal system.

Other changes include a codified  process for requesting permission to operate heavy equipment and generate after-hours construction noise during the evening and early-morning hours – a common practice in higher-density areas where daytime traffic congestion can hamper heavy machinery access. Under existing rules, such “noise waiver” applications can be approved only by the city manager but the proposed changes would grant that authority to other subordinates.

Miami District 2 Commissioner Damian Pardo, who is sponsoring the legislation, did not respond to multiple texts and emails from the Spotlight requesting comment. A spokesperson said by email that he would not be available to answer questions.