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New Noise Resolution
Introduction
| The Brown Township Trustees, recognizing the importance of preserving the right of residents to engage in customary rural activities without overly burdensome restrictions, conducted a resident survey concerning the regulation of noise in the unincorporated area of the township (the area outside of a municipality). |
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On Monday, July 21, 2025, after careful consideration and discussion, the Brown Township Board of Trustees passed the noise resolution with one revision; the enforcement hours were adjusted from 10pm-7am to 11pm-7am due to survey feedback.
Why
While Ohio law regulates noise control, it is not self-executing. R.C. 505.172 allows the Township to adopt regulations to control noise within the unincorporated territory of the township. This resolution meets that need.
Where and How Does this Apply
This regulation applies to any plainly audible noise that is generated at any premises, in the unincorporated territory of the Township generated within any areas zoned for residential use. It also applies to establishments holding a D permit issued by the division of liquor control (bar or tavern).
The noise must be plainly audible from a distance of 300' from the property line.
Quiet Hours
Between the hours of 11pm and 7am, noise that a typical person would find disturbing is a violation.
Plainly Audible
If a person can clearly hear the sound with normal hearing (no special equipment) it is considered a violation. There is no need to identify exact songs or words. Examples include:
- Blasting radios, TVs, speakers, or instruments
- Excessive horn honking
- The use of engines or power tools run in a way that disturbs neighbors (yard-tool and construction exceptions apply)
Exemptions
The following sounds are not considered a violation:
- Sounds from police, fire, and emergency vehicles
- Legal warning horns and alarms
- Farming activities, which are protected by Ohio law
- Mining, oil, and gas operations, which are protected by Ohio law
- Normal home construction, repairs, and yard work
- School events and licensed hunting/trapping
Enforcement
Franklin County Sheriff Deputies will use their own unenhanced hearing. For vehicles, there must be a clear line of sight.
Penalties
Violation is a second-degree misdemeanor. Fines go to the township's general fund.
Enables civil action
Anyone, who believes someone is violating the Township's Noise Control Resolution, can ask a court for an injunction or other form of relief. Courts can also award reasonable attorney fees to the winning side.
Beach Road over Darby Creek to be closed
Approximate Closure Date: July 7, 2025, for approximately 90 days, weather permitting.
Location: Bridge over Big Darby Creek
Type of Work: Bridge Rehabilitation
Westbound traffic on Beach Road will follow the posted detour north on Amity Road to Scioto & Darby Creek Road, west on Scioto & Darby Creek Road, which becomes Price-Hilliards Road. Continue west on Price-Hilliards Road to Plain City-Georgesville Road, and south on Plain City-Georgesville Road to Lucas Road, which becomes Beach Road.
Eastbound traffic will follow the posted detour in the opposite direction.
Comprehensive Plan
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Brown Township has launched a Comprehensive Plan Update process to address rural preservation, township development and land use practices. Use the button on the left to view the committee's work thus far. |
Mando Ditch Petition
Patterson Rd., Jerman Ln., Morris Rd., small part of Amity Rd.
Mando Ditch Petition Materials:
Franklin County Engineer Website (scroll down to find MANDO)
| March 27, 2024 Presentation Brown Twp Hall |
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Ohio Revised Code section 6131 allows the cost and maintenance of drainage improvement projects to be assessed over multiple landowners based on the benefit created to those properties. The Franklin County Engineer’s Office performs the design and oversees the construction and maintenance of these projects. Concerned landowners should attend these meetings to stay informed and provide feedback to the process.
| Jim Ramsey, PE Riparian and Environmental Franklin County Drainage Engineer jramsey@franklincountyengineer.org (614) 525-7469 |
Abby Obert, EI Drainage Project E.I. Franklin County Drainage Engineer aobert@franklincountyengineer.org (614) 525-5138 |
Don Murphy |
Open Burning
Please see our updated page on open burning.
- Top Menu: Environmental > Outdoor Fires
- Popular Links: Fires & Open Burning
Report Failing Sewage Systems
When
household sewage treatment systems fail, untreated sewage is discharged into the environment. Untreated wastewater from a failing system can contaminate drainage ditches, streams and drinking water wells. Avoid contact with untreated human waste.
Report suspected failed systems:
- Call (614) 525-4787
- FailingHSTS@FranklinCountyOhio.gov
About Township Communications
Section 505.07 of the Ohio Revised Code allows newsletters and websites for public awareness. Content for the Brown Township Newsletters and Website is provided by township officials, residents and various public organizations. This website contains much more information than is published in the newsletters. However, each newsletter is archived on this website.
Please send comments, articles and photos to Brown Township Newsletter Editor, 2491 Walker Rd, Hilliard, OH; 43026.
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