Property Line Sound Measurements and Evaluation

Avoiding noise is crucial to maintaining health. Noise exposure can induce many health issues, such as hypertension and sleep disturbances, in addition to hearing impairment. This is especially true if you live or work near highways, industrial plants, or other loud establishments.

That is exactly why local governments induced noise ordinances. The goal of the noise code is to determine the appropriate sound level at your property line. If the noise exceeds that limit, you have the right to file a complaint to reduce your noise exposure.

However, it can be difficult to determine the noise levels and compare them to the set standards. Some cases require special equipment and some noise standards are not easy to interpret. A noise specialist can help in these situations.

Noise Ordinances

One of the competencies of a noise control specialist is having a strong understanding of local noise codes. Ordinances vary by state, county, and city, with certain areas having more specific codes than others. For instance, highly urbanized areas like Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles have much more detailed written codes than predominantly rural areas where detailed regulation is not necessary.

Below is an excerpt of the noise code of Traverse City, Michigan.

“Create a noise disturbance on public property or streets, across a real property boundary, or within a noise sensitive zone. If such a device is plainly audible on the property of another or within a building other than that within which the device is located, and, if a complaint is made to the Noise Control Officer regarding annoyance or disturbance as a result of such device, this shall serve as prima facie evidence of a violation.”

As you can see, it might be challenging to assess on your own whether or not a sound level is beyond or below the standard. Luckily, a noise control specialist has the necessary knowledge, certification, and experience to help you.

Measuring the Noise

The most important responsibility of a noise control specialist is measuring noise levels at a given location. In order to do so, they will employ sophisticated sound level measuring meters to accurately determine sound levels. These devices undergo routine maintenance and calibration by the manufacturer to ensure accuracy.

Documentation

After evaluating the sound levels, the noise control specialist will compare them with local noise codes. This is done in order to assess whether or not the noise exceeds the upper bound of the allowed noise standard. If this is the case, it is crucial to ask the noise specialist for appropriate documentation.

Documentation is necessary to prove to the responsible parties that the noise exceeds the local sound limit. Thus, that noisy industrial plant near your home will be legally bound to reduce the amount of noise it emits and you will be able to enjoy your leisure time in peace.

If you are interested in maintaining an appropriate noise level on your property line, contact eNoise Control for help. Our experienced acoustical consultants can measure the sound and provide suggestions to limit excessive noise.