Police Actions for a Private Outdoor Party
My question involves police conduct in the State of: Oregon
I plan on holding an event that goes from 7pm-Midnight on my private party in West Linn, OR. The City of West Linn has a sound ordinance that goes until 7pm, so basically I will br breaking that ordinance by having a large event with amplified music until Midnight.
My question are:
- What actions can the police take against me? Can they shut it down, give me a fine, a warning?
Thank You
Re: Police Actions for a Private Outdoor Party
Quote:
Quoting
richard503
- What actions can the police take against me? Can they shut it down, give me a fine, a warning?
Likely any or all of the above.
Have you considered looking into the ordinance to see if there is a permit you can seek?
Understand that even if you receive a permit, such a permit would not likely overrule state laws concerning disturbances so you might also be subject to citation or arrest for violating other laws even if the city allows you a permit.
One thing we advise people of is to speak to their neighbors. Let people know there will be a party, how many people will be there, what the noise will be and when it will end, and give them your number so they can contact you directly if there is a problem. Most disturbance type offenses need a complaining party. If the neighbors call you directly, then they will not be calling the police.
The bottom line is that you do not have a right to conduct activity that disturb others. You can either get everyone on board and be a cooperative and understanding neighbor, or run the risk of the police getting involved.
Re: Police Actions for a Private Outdoor Party
Thanks buddy! Yeah the City will not issue a variance, it's pretty ridiculous!
I plan on notifying the neighbors, I just wanted to see the actions the police could pursue.
Thanks again!
Re: Police Actions for a Private Outdoor Party
There are good reasons to have such ordinances, and because of state laws concerning disturbances, a local permit (or temporary variance) might not protect you from prosecution if a neighbor complained.
Keep in mind that depending on the ruckus, people from a couple blocks or more away from you might also complain. So, understand that throwing a loud shindig - presumably with copious alcohol - can be a risky proposition from both a civil liability and a criminal liability standpoint.