Teresina Bans Fireworks Exceeding 70 Decibels, Restricting Noise Levels
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Teresina, Brazil, has enacted a new law prohibiting the manufacture, sale, handling, use, and detonation of fireworks that produce sound levels exceeding 70 decibels. This measure, published on Thursday, May 9th, in the Official Municipal Gazette, was sanctioned by Mayor Silvio Mendes and introduced by City Councilor Elzuila Calisto (PT). The regulation permits only fireworks with visual effects, provided they adhere to the established noise limit. The ban applies to both individuals and legal entities, including event organizers, commercial establishments, and promoters.
Violators will initially receive a warning and a 30-day period to comply. Failure to rectify the situation will result in a fine of up to R$1,000, with repeat offenses within 60 days escalating the penalty to R$8,000. Funds collected from these fines are designated for social programs and actions, unless the Public Administration justifies their use for other public interests. Traditional fireworks can exceed 150 decibels, while the new law limits noise to 70 decibels, comparable to a vacuum cleaner or moderate traffic noise.
This legislation addresses the growing societal concern regarding noise pollution and its impact on public well-being, particularly for sensitive populations. By setting a specific decibel limit, Teresina aims to balance public celebration with the need for environmental and auditory peace. The phased penalty structure incentivizes compliance, while the allocation of fine revenue to social causes aligns economic enforcement with community benefit. Looking ahead, such regulations may become more prevalent as cities grapple with the dual demands of vibrant public life and the increasing awareness of noise's detrimental effects on health and quality of life in urban environments, especially in the context of technological advancements that could enable quieter pyrotechnics.
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