The assembly approved the second reading of a proposal to amend the municipality’s code regarding civil fines for animal noise violations.

According to the ordinance’s current language, “chronic animal noises” of “repeated vocalization” are limited to less than seven minutes between the hours of 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and five minutes from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. in a one-hour period of time.

Infractions of that noise ordinance are currently subject to a fine of no more than $300.

If the proposed change were to pass, violations would be subject to the municipality’s general guidelines for civil penalties.

In addition to paying fines for the infraction, the violator would also be held responsible for covering the cost for the collection of the money, any legal fees and the cost to mail the notice.

Failure to pay or appeal the fine within 10 days of written notice of the violation would incur an additional late fee.

Assemblyman Tim Cochran said the changes proposed by this measure would make this section of the municipality’s code consistent with other kinds of civil fines.