We have made several attempts to find the answer to what we think is a straightforward question. We are hopeful that you can help, as our efforts to get an answer have been futile.

What are the legal operating hours for general construction and lawn work inside the city limits?

For “construction and demolition activity, operation of power tools, mechanical devices, equipment hammers, concrete trucks, or other similar devices,” the hours are 5 a.m.-7 p.m. on weekdays and 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays.

Such activity is prohibited on Sundays and federal holidays, unless the workers have been given permission from the city.

An exception: “Construction activity performed by an agency of government provided that all equipment is operated in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications and is equipped with all noise-reducing equipment in proper condition.”

For “lawn mowers and agricultural equipment,” the hours are 7 a.m.-10 p.m. “when operated in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications and with all standard noise reducing equipment in place and in proper condition.”

Other noise prohibitions, as listed in Section 13-7.1 of the city code:

• “Repair or testing of any motor vehicle, however fueled or powered between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. on weekdays, and 10:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m. on weekends and federal holidays.”

• “Operation of any motor vehicle so as to cause the tires to squeal or screech unnecessarily.”

• “The use of any gong or siren upon any vehicle other than police, fire, ambulance or other official emergency vehicle.”

Online: www.municode.com.

One for, one against gun compromise

How did our two Senators vote on the gun background check bill?

U.S. Sen. David Vitter, a Republican, voted against the proposal, Senate Amendment 715. U.S. Sen. Mary Landrieu, a Democrat, voted for it.

She released the following statement explaining her vote:

“The Manchin-Toomey compromise was a hard-fought but balanced approach that would reduce gun violence and make it much harder for criminals and mentally ill individuals to access guns. Currently, guns can be purchased at gun shows without any background check whatsoever, leaving a gaping hole in our gun protection system. However, even with my support, the measure did not garner the 60 votes necessary for passage in the Senate. I believe that we must do a better job of keeping guns out of the hands of criminals. I’m confident that most people understand the importance of closing this loophole while preserving the rights of law abiding individuals to own and use guns for hunting, sport and self-protection.

“In addition, the Manchin-Toomey amendment, happily for gun enthusiasts, explicitly prohibited the federal government from creating a national registry of gun owners; it benefited the approximately 950 licensed gun dealers in Louisiana by putting them on a level playing field by eliminating the unfair advantage now enjoyed by unlicensed dealers; and it clarified that veterans can purchase a gun at their duty station as well as in their home state.”

Both senators voted against proposals to regulate magazine size (Senate Amendment 714) and ban certain military-style semiautomatic weapons (Senate Amendment 711).

Online: http://thomas.loc.gov.

The Informer answers questions from readers each Sunday, Monday and Wednesday. It is researched and written by Andrew Perzo, an American Press staff writer. To ask a question, call 494-4098, press 5 and leave voice mail, or email informer@americanpress.com

(American Press Archives)