Enhanced acoustical performance - exterior noise control

Intent

Improve or have no negative impacts on the outdoor acoustical environment as a result of new or major renovation building construction.

Requirements

Design and locate exterior noise sources¹ for new and majorly renovated buildings so that project noise levels at the nearest property line or public right of way are a minimum of 5 dBA below the existing ambient noise levels without the project, and no more than 60 dBA. Ambient sound level shall be measured as a Day-Night Equivalent Level (Ldn), and future sound levels from the project shall be calculated. Project building equipment noise shall be evaluated with respect to existing levels, and mitigated as required to not exceed the levels set out above. Emergency equipment (e.g. generators) do not need to meet these noise requirements, however, an operations plan must be included to describe their schedule for periodic testing.

¹Noise sources may include building equipment mounted on the rooftop, inside building but exterior venting, or located at grade), transformers, traffic associated with the building, and other sources.