Megaphone Nightmares

December 29, 2012 11:44 AM

Preacher with a megaphone / bullhorn. Street legal in Seattle?
posted by mmdei to Law & Government (5 answers total)

AFAIK it is not illegal to use personal portable amplification systems (which include megaphones) while engaged in lawful, peaceable public assembly in Seattle.

However, you may run into issues with complaints, which can be enforced, or time limits on the duration of public address system usage.

If you are looking to use one, be respectful and considerate of other pedestrians and nearby business owners.

If you are looking to stop the use of one, make a complaint and see what happens.
posted by Aquaman at 12:38 PM on December 29, 2012

Depending on the circumstances it might be considered "Disturbing the Peace".
posted by Chocolate Pickle at 12:42 PM on December 29, 2012

I'm assuming based on the headline at the top of the page that the OP isn't the one with the megaphone.

Maybe call the police non-emergency line and ask?
posted by 2oh1 at 12:42 PM on December 29, 2012

Duration of the noise source is definitely a consideration when dealing with complaints. A 5-minute public protest may be OK while 3 hours of a constant tirade may not. Make sure you keep a detailed record of the offending usage for your complaint.

To be perfectly clear: ZERO use of a megaphone is not enforceable, and INFINITE use of a megaphone is not acceptable. The exact nature of the middle ground depends on many factors, which only the police can render an on-site judgement about.
posted by Aquaman at 12:47 PM on December 29, 2012 [1 favorite]

Seattle PD on when they can intervene in noise situations.
posted by Jahaza at 7:34 PM on December 29, 2012 [1 favorite]