East Palo Alto Municipal Code Art. IV Noise Measurement Criteria

All noise measurements taken for the enforcement of this chapter shall be in accordance with the following criteria:

A. Any noise measurement made pursuant to the provisions of this chapter shall be made with a sound level meter as defined in Section 8.52.280. The "A" weighted network (scale) at slow impulsive response shall be used to measure impulsive type sound levels; the response used shall be stated. The time durations for each of the sound levels occurring shall be measured, together with the duration of the measurements.

B. Calibration of the measurement equipment utilizing an acoustic calibrator shall be performed immediately prior to recording any noise data.

C. A windscreen shall be used on the sound level meter for all sound measurements. No external measurements shall be made during precipitation, or if wind speed exceeds twelve (12) miles per hour.

D. Exterior noise levels shall be measured within fifty (50) feet of the affected residence, school, hospital, church, public library but in no case beyond the property line. Where practical, the microphone shall be positioned four to five feet above the ground and ten feet or more away from any reflective surface. The location of microphone and adjacent surfaces shall be described. The microphone orientation shall be as recommended by the sound meter manufacturer.

E. Interior noise levels shall be measured within the affected dwelling unit at a point at least four feet from the wall, ceiling or floor nearest the noise source, with windows in the normal seasonal configuration. The microphone location and room configuration shall be described.

(Prior code § 5-7.401)