§ 13-278. Definitions

The following words, phrases and terms as used in this chapter shall have the meaning indicated below:

Cumulative period. An additive period of time composed of individual time segments which may be continuous or interrupted.

Decibel (dB). A unit which denotes the ratio between two (2) quantities which are proportional to power: The number of decibels corresponding to the ratio of two (2) amounts of power is ten (10) times the logarithm to the base 10 of this ratio.

Emergency machinery, vehicle or work. Any machinery, vehicle or work used, employed or performed in an effort to protect, provide or restore safe conditions in the community or for the citizenry, or work by private or public utilities when restoring utility service.

Exterior residential noise environment. The exterior environs of a residential development which include private yard of single-family residence, multi-family private patio or balcony which is served by means of exit from inside the dwelling, private balconies greater than six (6) feet in depth, and common open space areas containing resident-serving amenities (i.e. pool, spa, tennis courts). Exception: For multi-family residential development or live/work units approved pursuant to a master plan in a mixed-use overlay district where the base zoning district is nonresidential, the exterior residential noise environment does not include the following areas: Private balconies or patios regardless of size, private or community roof decks/roof terraces, internal courtyards and landscaped walkways that do not include resident-serving, active recreational uses such as community pool, spa, tennis courts, barbeque, and picnic areas.

Fixed noise source. A stationary device which creates sounds while fixed or motionless, including but not limited to industrial and commercial machinery and equipment, pumps, fans, compressors, generators, air conditioners and refrigeration equipment.

Grading. Any excavating or filling of earth material, or any combination thereof, conducted at a site to prepare the site for construction or other improvements.

Impact noise. The noise produced by the collision of one mass in motion with a second mass which may be either in motion or at rest.

Interior residential noise environment. The interior environs of a residential dwelling unit or live/work unit which includes all interior spaces such as, but not limited to, bathrooms, closets, corridors, kitchen, living room/family room, bedrooms, playroom, and office.

Mobile noise source. Any noise source other than a fixed noise source.

Noise level. The "A" weighted sound pressure level in decibels obtained by using a sound level meter at slow response with a reference pressure of twenty (20) micronewtons per square meter. The unit of measurement shall be designated as dB(A).

Person. A person, firm, association, copartnership, joint venture, corporation or any entity, public or private in nature.

Residential property. A lot of real property which is developed and used either in part or in whole for residential purposes, other than transient uses such as hotels and motels.

Simple tone noise. A noise characterized by a predominant frequency or frequencies so that other frequencies cannot be readily distinguished.

Sound pressure level of a sound, in decibels. Twenty (20) times the logarithm to the base 10 of the ratio of the pressure of the sound to a reference pressure, which reference pressure shall be explicitly stated.

(Ord. No. 97-11, § 2, 5-5-97; Ord. No. 06-9, § 1j., 4-18-06 )