Except as otherwise permitted in this Code, any source of sound exceeding the sound level limits set forth in this chapter constitutes a noise disturbance. For purposes of determining sound levels from any source of sound, sound level measurements must be made at a point on the receiving property nearest where the sound source at issue generates the highest sound level. Sound level measurements must be made with a precision Sound Level Meter (Type 1 or 2) set to A-weighting, and "fast" response for fluctuating sound. Slow or fast response may be used for continual sources. For repetitive, impulsive sound, the 1 second rms maximum level (Lmax) must be used. For continuous sound, use the average level or Leq. In multi-family residential structures, the microphone must be placed no closer than 3-1/2 feet from the wall through which the source of sound at issue is transmitting. The microphone must also be placed 5 feet above the floor regardless of whether the source of sound at issue transmits through the floor, ceiling or wall.
(Ord. 1109, passed 6-21-04)