SLIPPERY ROCK TWP — The township supervisors Monday approved an amendment to the zoning ordinance adding restrictions to outdoor amplified sound systems.

It was the second ordinance the board has adopted this year to attempt to discourage or control unruly parties at some of the apartment complexes in the township that cater to Slippery Rock University students.

On Nov. 23, the board approved a nuisance gathering ordinance that allows the township zoning officer to cite and fine property owners if there is a gathering of at least 10 people where three or more criminal citations are issued.

The zoning amendment requires property owners or event organizers to get a permit to have a sound system for any type of outdoor entertainment or event.

It defines an event using the same terms as the nuisance gathering ordinance: a gathering of at least 10 people.

The new rules apply to multifamily dwellings, parks and businesses.

Single-family dwellings and school properties are exempt, meaning sporting events at the Slippery Rock School District and SRU will not be effected.

Religious and political events also are exempt.

The ordinance limits the hours of operation to 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Owners are limited to one permit per month and six per calendar year.

If a multiday event is planned on the weekend, it will only require one permit.

The township zoning officer has the authority to revoke or deny a permit for violating any of the rules or for violating the nuisance ordinance during that calendar year.

Rick Grossman, township planning consultant, said township officials will draft a letter to send to businesses and organizations that will be affected by the new regulations.

Grossman said he does not anticipate any events planned during the winter that would require a permit.

Officials started looking at ways to control events after several parties occurred in the past year when state police had to be called.

The incidents included a “Pig Roast 2K15” April 25 at The Heights apartments and a “Block Party” Sept. 3 at University Village apartments that both resulted in multiple arrests.

Those parties were primarily for SRU students.