Are Sarasota deputies required to act on disturbance complaints?

Even if residents believe a noise is too disruptive, deputies need probable cause to enforce a noise ordinance in unincorporated Sarasota County, including Siesta Key Beach.

Sarasota has both sound and noise ordinances. The sound ordinance applies to businesses and property owners and is enforced with a decibel system. The noise ordinance, also known as a “disturbance of peace,” applies to unreasonably loud noises like yelling or using amplifiers intended to disrupt the community’s comfort.

If law enforcement has probable cause that someone is violating the noise ordinance, they must first give that person a warning. After a reasonable amount of time (usually 15 minutes), they are subject to penalties, such as fines up to $500 and/or up to 60 days in jail.

While some noises may cause disruptions, officials determine the intention of that disruption and whether it’s subject to penalties.