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CITY OF WEST CHICAGO
PUBLIC AFFAIRS COMMITTEE
AGENDA ITEM SUMMARY
ITEM TITLE: Ordinance 21-O-0015
AGENDA ITEM NUMBER: __ 3.4.
An Ordinance Amending Chapter 10, Article V, Noise Control
Regulation FILE NUMBER:
COMMITTEE AGENDA DATE: May 24, 2021
COUNCIL AGENDA DATE: June 7, 2021
STAFF REVIEW: Christopher Shackelford, Interim Chief of Police | SIGNATURE
APPROVED BY CITY ADMINISTRATOR: Michael Guttman
SIGNATURE
ITEM SUMMARY:
The existing noise ordinance relies on measuring sound using an A-weighted sound scale, designated as dBA. Utilizing dBA is
appropriate in many instances of noise complaints, as dBA most closely measures loudness as heard by the human ear.
However, certain types of noise, such as that in a low-frequency range, are best-measured using a C-weighted scale, designated
as dBC. Examples of low-frequency sound are bass produced in music and noise generated by compressors, pumps and diesel
engines.
In order to ensure regulations concerning noise control includes a component that allows staff to properly determine if certain
low-frequency noise is a potential annoyance that violates the intent of the code, staff proposes adding the C-weighted measure
of sound to the ordinance. Similar to the existing dBA threshold, the proposed acceptable dBC would depend on the time of
day. The hours between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. allow for a higher low-frequency sound of 70 dBC, while a lower acceptable
threshold of 65 dBC would apply between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.
Sound meters currently in use by staff have the capability of measuring both dBA and dBC.
ACTIONS PROPOSED:
Staff recommends that the Public Affairs Committee recommend approval of Ordinance 21-O-0015.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION:
The Public Affairs Committee recommends approval of Ordinance No. 21-O-0015.