(A) Maximum permissible sound levels by receiving land use.
(1) The noise standards for the various noise zones as presented in the following table shall, unless otherwise specifically indicated, apply to all such property within a designated zone.
(2) No person shall operate or cause to be operated any source of sound at any location within the incorporated town, or allow the creation of any noise on property owned, leased, occupied or otherwise controlled by the person, which causes the noise level when measured at the complainant’s property line to exceed the limits in the table below for more than seven and one-half minutes in a 15- minute period. Those seven and one-half minutes need not be continuous.
(3) If the measured ambient level differs from that permissible, the allowable noise exposure standard shall be adjusted in five-decibel increments in each category as appropriate to encompass or reflect the ambient noise level.
(4) If the measurement location is on a boundary between two different zones, the noise level limit applicable to the lower noise zone shall apply.
(B) Correction for character of sound.
(1) In the event the alleged offensive noise, as judged by the Chief of Police or his or her designated representative, contains a steady, audible tone such as a whine, screech or hum, or is a repetitive noise such as hammering or riveting, or contains music or speech, the standard limits set forth in the table below shall be reduced by five decibels.
Exterior Noise Limits (Levels not be be exceeded more than 7.5 minutes in any 15-minute period) | |||
Noise Zone | Time Period | Noise Level (dBA) | |
A (Residential) | Night | 10:00 p.m. - 7:00 a.m. | 40 |
Day | 7:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. | 50 | |
B (Multiple Dwelling, Residential) | Night | 10:00 p.m. - 7:00 a.m. | 50 |
Day | 7:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. | 55 | |
C (Commercial) | Night | 10:00 p.m. - 7:00 a.m. | 55 |
Day | 7:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. | 60 | |
(2) These zones are illustrated on Exhibit A, “Noise Zones, Town of Fairfax,” attached to the ordinance codified in this chapter. Areas that are not covered on the map are included in Zone A.
(Prior Code, § 8.16.050) (Ord. 481, passed - -1981; Am. Ord. 529, passed - -1984)