Subdivision 1302 – Environmental Protection

CHAPTER 8-32
NOISE AND VIBRATION CONTROL

Part A.  General Provisions

8-32-010   Short title.

8-32-020   Definitions.

8-32-030   Rules and regulations.

8-32-040   Most restrictive limits to apply.

8-32-060   Designation of noise sensitive zones.

Part B.  Limitations on Noise from Specific Sources

8-32-070   Music and amplified sound.

8-32-080   Regulated entertainment businesses.

8-32-090   Mechanical stationary sources.

8-32-100   Emergency signal devices.

8-32-110   Non-emergency signal devices.

8-32-120   Restrictions within noise sensitive zones.

8-32-130   Loading and unloading operations.

8-32-140   Construction, repair or demolition equipment.

Part C.  Other Limitations on Noise and Vibrations

8-32-150   Limitations on noise not otherwise addressed.

8-32-160   Limitations on earthshaking vibrations.

8-32-170   Exceptions and exclusions.

PART A. GENERAL PROVISIONS (8-32-010 et seq.)

8-32-010 Short title.

   This chapter may be referred to as the Chicago Noise Ordinance.

(Added Coun. J. 11-16-11, p. 13798, Art. II, § 5)

8-32-020 Definitions.

   When used in this chapter, the following terms have the stated definitions:

   “Air handling unit” means any device or machine that as part of its function moves air into or out of a building, and includes but is not limited to any air conditioner, ventilation fan or exhaust fan.

   “Ambient noise level” means the sound level at a given location that exists as a result of the combined contribution in that location of all sound sources, excluding the contribution of a source or sources under investigation for violation of this Code.

   “Average conversational level” means a level at which normal, unamplified speech is clearly and distinctly audible above ambient noise level.

   “District” means those districts established by the City Zoning Ordinance ( Title 17 of this Code).

   “Mechanical stationary source” means any machine or device operated by fuel or electric power that does not change locations in the course of its use, including but not limited to air handling units and refrigeration units. Mechanical stationary sources include sources on vehicles or trailers, including but not limited to generators, used when the vehicle or trailer is parked.

   “Noise disturbance” means any sound which is audible at a distance of 600 feet or more from the source.

   “Private open space” means any area on private property that is open to the outdoors, including but not limited to backyards, front yards, gangways and structures with windows and/or doors open to the outdoors.

   “Public way” means any sidewalk, street, alley, highway or other public thoroughfare.

   “Refrigeration unit” means any device or machine that as part of its function cools air, and includes but is not limited to any air conditioner or compressor used in connection with any refrigerator or freezer.

(Added Coun. J. 11-16-11, p. 13798, Art. II, § 5)

 

Notes

Title 17

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8-32-030 Rules and regulations.

   The superintendent of police is authorized to adopt such rules and regulations as he may deem appropriate for the proper administration and enforcement of the provisions of this chapter, except section 8-32-090.

(Added Coun. J. 11-16-11, p. 13798, Art. II, § 5)

8-32-040 Most restrictive limits to apply.

   In case of a conflict between any sections of this chapter, the provision which contains the most restrictive limits applies.

(Added Coun. J. 11-16-11, p. 13798, Art. II, § 5)