Noise & Other Disturbances in the City of Kalamazoo

Division Of Student Affairs; Western Michigan University

There seems to be a reluctance on the part of citizens to call police or file formal complaints. This reluctance comes from a fear of retaliation, a lack of understanding as to one's rights, or a feeling of helplessness that the police "won't do anything".

The fact is that the police are willing and able to help if an ordinance is violated, but the citizen must cooperate in making a complaint.

Of course, the first response to a disturbance may be to contact the source of the problem directly. When your safety or welfare could be jeopardized, or the violators refuse to discontinue the disturbance, we urge you to call the police.

For non-emergencies such as disturbance of the peace, littering, parking, etc., call 337-8120. Call 911 only in an emergency.

New Laws:

Problem: Consumption of Alcohol Beverages in Public Places
Ordinance: Sec 22-57

Problem: Trespassing
Ordinance: Sec. 22-7

Problem: Public Urination
Using the outdoors as a bathroom is offensive !

Problem: Traffic Congestion
Ordinance: Sec. 22-19

Problem: Underage Drinking
State Law: The legal drinking age in Michigan is 21. Local enforcement is possible through state laws.

Problem: Parking
Ordinance: Sec. 22-12.1; Sec. 36-168

Problem: Noise, large parties, stereos, yelling, ect.
Ordinance: Sec. 22-50; Sec. 21-6; Sec. 21-6 through 21-20

Problem: Littering
Ordinance: Sec. 22-10

Kalamazoo Police Department:

What to expect when police have been called:

1. Officer will respond as soon as possible. Response time may be faster on the nights that a special noise patrol is on duty. Remember, urgent calls are handled first.

2. If the officer observes a violation in his/her presence, the officer will take appropriate action.

3. In excessive noise cases, the officer will issue an appearance ticket or make an arrest. An arrest will be made if participants are uncooperative, repeat offenders, or fail to properly identify themselves. Arrests will also be made if the size of the crowd or intensity of the excessive noise warrants it or if it appears that arrest is the best alternative to quell the disturbance.

4. If the officer does not observe the violation, and a complainant makes himself/herself known, the officer will submit a report for complaint and warrant and warn the alleged violators. The City Attorney may authorize an arrest warrant at a later time.