Elkhart County has a new permit process to seek exceptions to the noise control ordinance.

An amendment to the ordinance was approved by county commissioners, allowing residents to formally requests a variance.

The Elkhart Truth reports that the board has been receiving a lot of requests for fireworks and concerts. In addition to a needed process to handle the exceptions and communication better with the sheriff’s office.

Penalties to the noise ordinance range from $250 for a first offense to $2,500 for repeat violators.

Starting in November, the variance request form must be submitted to the county administrator at least 10 days before the event.