A. Definitions: Unless the context requires otherwise, the following definitions apply:
MOTOR VEHICLE: A vehicle propelled by its own power and designed to transport persons or property upon the highways, streets, and alleys within the city. The term includes any moped, power driven bicycle, motorcycle, motor scooter, automobile, truck or any other vehicle propelled by a motor of any kind.
PLAINLY AUDIBLE: Any sound produced by a sound amplification system either on or from within a motor vehicle, which can clearly be heard at a distance of fifty feet (50') or more. Measurement standards shall be by the auditory senses, based upon direct line of sight. Words or phrases need not be discernable and bass reverberations are included.
SOUND AMPLIFICATION SYSTEM: Any device, instrument or system, whether electrical, mechanical or otherwise, for amplifying sound or for producing or reproducing sound, including, but not limited to, any radio, stereo, musical instrument, phonograph, tape player, compact disc player, boom box, loudspeaker or sound or musical recorder or player, or any other such electronic device used for the amplification of noise.
B. Use Of Loud Amplification Systems Prohibited: No driver or occupant of a motor vehicle on any public or private property located within the exterior boundaries of the city shall operate or permit the operation of a sound amplification system from either on or within a motor vehicle so that the sound is plainly audible at a distance of fifty feet (50') or more from the motor vehicle.
C. Exemptions:
1. A system being operated to request assistance of an emergency nature or to warn of a hazardous situation; or
2. A system being operated on a motor vehicle belonging to a railroad, gas, electric, communications or water utility company or governmental entity when engaged in official business only; or
3. An authorized emergency vehicle such as an ambulance or fire truck; or
4. Audio alarm systems installed in motor vehicles; or
5. Any system granted written permission by the city council after the owner or operator has requested said exemption be used for legitimate business needs or purposes which outweigh the public's right to be free from unnecessary noise or disturbance of the peace. (Ord. 12.70, 9-18-2000; amd. 2006 Code)