I respectfully suggest that the proposed noise ordinance is just another unenforceable paper tiger. When I was building official of Healdsburg, we had a noise ordinance. It was VERY difficult to enforce as most noise complaints were for noise after working hours. Most noise ordinances have a maximum decibel limit at the receptor location (property line or adjacent business or residence). Staff will need to be trained on how to use a decibel meter and how to determine if the noise is constant, intermittent, etc. A complainant (reporting party) wanting to remain anonymous, will further complicate an investigation as the alleged violation must be verified at the receptor (complainant) site which could compromise anonymity. As you know county Code Enforcement staff generally work an 8 - 5 schedule. To effectively enforce Supervisor McGourty's proposed noise ordinance, code enforcement staff will have to be on call to work overtime when there is a noise complaint after hours or the Sherrif will need to be trained on how to use a decibel meter and be the lead agency to enforce the noise ordinance for after hours. In my professional opinion the proposed noise ordinance is poorly thought out and will, for the most part be ineffective.
Dear Board of Supervisors,
I respectfully suggest that the proposed noise ordinance is just another unenforceable paper tiger. When I was building official of Healdsburg, we had a noise ordinance. It was VERY difficult to enforce as most noise complaints were for noise after working hours. Most noise ordinances have a maximum decibel limit at the receptor location (property line or adjacent business or residence). Staff will need to be trained on how to use a decibel meter and how to determine if the noise is constant, intermittent, etc. A complainant (reporting party) wanting to remain anonymous, will further complicate an investigation as the alleged violation must be verified at the receptor (complainant) site which could compromise anonymity. As you know county Code Enforcement staff generally work an 8 - 5 schedule. To effectively enforce Supervisor McGourty's proposed noise ordinance, code enforcement staff will have to be on call to work overtime when there is a noise complaint after hours or the Sherrif will need to be trained on how to use a decibel meter and be the lead agency to enforce the noise ordinance for after hours. In my professional opinion the proposed noise ordinance is poorly thought out and will, for the most part be ineffective.
Sincerely,
Scott Ward
Redwood Valley