For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
AMBIENT SOUND. The all encompassing noise associated with a given environment, being usually a composite of sounds from many sources, near and far.
DECIBEL. A unit for describing the amplitude of sound, equal to 20 times the logarithm to the base ten of the ratio of the pressure of the sound measured to the referenced pressure, which is 20 micronewtons per square meter.
EMERGENCY WORK. Work performed for the purpose of preventing or alleviating physical trauma or property damage threatened or caused by an existing or imminent peril.
NOISE. Any sound emitted by a person, vehicle, appliance, equipment, instrument or other human-made device. Specifically excluded is sound emitted by an animal.
NOISE DISTURBANCE. Any noise which:
(1) Endangers or injures the safety or health of humans or animals;
(2) A noise that disturbs a reasonable person of normal sensitivities;
(3) Endangers, injures or seriously interferes with the quiet enjoyment or reasonable use of real or personal property; or
PERSON. Includes an individual, firm, association, organization, partnership, trust, company, corporation or any similar entity.
SOUND LEVEL. The weighted sound pressure level obtained by the use of a sound level meter and frequency weighing networks such as A, B or C as specified in ANSI specifications for sound level meters. If the frequency weighing employed is not indicated, the A-weighing shall apply.
SOUND LEVEL METER. An instrument including a microphone, amp, output meter and frequency waiting networks for the measurement of noise and sound levels in a specified matter.
(Ord. 26-94, passed 11-15-1994)