Douglas Lewis from the City of Marathon explains:
The trouble in general is defining “noisy.” What may seem pesky to one is considered perfectly normal to others. It is hard to draw a line between the two, but there is a sound ordinance in place and the managers of the vacation rentals are well aware of the rules and regulations; they don’t want the renters to disturb the neighbors.
Summer is approaching which means fun events and activities such as the 4th of July, Mini Lobster Season or just longer days to hang out by the pool. Unfortunately, this can also bring noisy parties or vacation rentals full of tourists who don’t have to get up in the morning to go to work.
We all know how sound carries across the water and that late night festivities across the canal can sound like it’s in your bedroom. What is a resident to do?
If joining the party is not an option and it’s a vacation rental, you can contact the City of Marathon to find out the name and number of the 24-hour local contact for the rental. Sometimes a phone call is all it takes.
If the noise continues and it is past the city noise ordinance hours (Sunday to Thursday from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.; Fridays and Saturdays from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m.) you can call the non-emergency number for the sheriff’s office.
According to Marathon’s ordinances, it must be louder than 70 decibels, measured from at least 50 feet away on a public right of way. For comparison, a person operating a vacuum cleaner would perceive that noise at 70 decibels.
