HomeMy WebLinkAboutNoise Control - Ordinance 3940 - Amends HBMC Chapter 8.40 re PROOF O
PUBLICATION
STATE OF CALIFORNIA) CITY OF HUNTINGTON
BEACH'
S S 0 LEGAL NOTICE
COUNTY OF ORANGE ) ORedbyteCityC40'l
Adopted by the City Council
on JUNE 4,.2012
am a citizen of the United States and a !"AN ORDINANCE OF THE
CITY OF HUNTINGTON
resident of the County of Los Angeles; I iBEACH AMENDING
CHAPTER 8.40-OF THE
am over the age of eighteen years, and HUNTINGTON BEACH
RE-
not a party to or interested in the notice MUNICIPAL CODE RE
;,EATING TO NOISE-CON-
published. I am a principal clerk of the SYNOPSIS:
NO SIS: the City At-
HUNTINGTON BEACH (torney's Office discov
ers sections of the Hun,
INDEPENDENT, which was,adjudged a tington Beach Municipal
Code (HBMC) and Zon- ,
newspaper of general circulation on ;ing and Subdivision Or-
dinance (HBZSO) that
September 29, 1961, case A6214, and have become.outdated
thnolo
June 11, 1963, case A24831, for the baclausadvfances. oar
changes to Federal or
City of Huntington Beach, County of ;State laws.,In the case
of the City's noise or-
Orange, and the State of California. dinance, changes in '
state law as well as-
Attached to this Affidavit is a true and technological changes
complete copy as was printed and have made certain -suc
tions of the code' out-
dated and difficult to
published on the following date(s): enforce.
PASSED AND ADOPTED
by the City Council of
ton
Thursday, June 14, 2012 Bea hityat athe Cfunregular
meeting held June 4,
2012 by the following
roll call vote:
AYES: Harper, Dwyer,
certif Y p(or declare) under enalty Boardman
Hansen, Garchio, Bohr,
6IOES:None
ABSTAIN:None
of perjury that the foregoing is true ABSENT:Shaw
and correct. THE FULL TEXT OF THE
ORDINANCE IS AVAIL-
ABLE IN THE CITY
CLERK'S OFFICE.
This ordinance is ef-
fective 30 days after
adoption.
Executed on June 22, 2012 CITY OFHUNTINGTON
BEACH
2000 MAIN STREET
at Los Angeles, California HUNT CA
G9248EACH,
714-536-5227
JOAN L.FLYNN,CITY
CLERK
Published H.B. Indepen-
dent 6/14/12
Signature
. � �
Council/Agency Meeting Held:
Deferred/Continued to: // �� 12�§�� /�
U.Approved ❑ Conditionally pproved ❑ Denied Y
tX
rk's Signature
Council Meeting Date: May 7, 2012 Department ID Number: CA-008
CITY OF HUNTINGTON BEACH
REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION
SUBMITTED TO: Honorable Mayor and City Council Members
SUBMITTED BY: Jennifer McGrath, City Attorney
PREPARED BY: Fred A. Wilson, City Manager
SUBJECT: Approve for introduction Ordinance No. 3940 amending Huntington
Beach Municipal Code (HBMC) Chapter 8.40 relating to Noise Control
Statement of Issue: Periodically the City Attorney's Office discovers sections of the
Huntington Beach Municipal Code (HBMC) and Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance that have
become outdated because of technological advances or changes to Federal or State laws.
In the case of the City's noise ordinance, changes in state law as well as technological
changes have made certain sections of the code outdated and difficult to enforce.
Financial Impact: N/A
Recommended Action: Motion to:
Approve for introduction Ordinance No. 3940, "An Ordinance of the City of Huntington Beach
Amending Chapter 8.40 of the Huntington Beach Municipal Code Relating to Noise Control."
Alternative Action(s): Do not approve amendment to Huntington Beach Municipal Code
section.
Analysis: The City's noise ordinance as codified in Chapter 8.40 of the HBMC, has become
outdated and difficult to enforce. In part, advances in technology provide new sound
measuring devices that allow more accurate sound measurements not contemplated in the
existing code. In addition, state law designations regarding enforcement and variance
procedures have changed. Because of changes in state law the City's primary administrative
enforcement arm process has been effectively eliminated. The proposed code amendments
will eliminate the current variance procedure and replace it with a more streamlined permit
process including appeal. Responsibility for the enforcement and permit process will be
moved from the County to the City. In addition, the proposed modifications will clarify the
applicably of certain noise standards to events and property.
HB -985- Item 14. - 1
REQUEST FOR COUNCIL ACTION
MEETING DATE: 5/7/2012 DEPARTMENT ID NUMBER: CA-008
Environmental Status: N/A
Strategic Plan Goal: Maintain public safety
Attachment(s):
Ordinance No. 3940, "An Ordinance Of The City Of Huntington Beach Amending
Chapter 8.40 Of The Huntington Beach Municipal Code Relating To Noise Control"
2 Legislative Draft
Item 14. - 2 xB -986-
ATTACHMENT # 1
ORDINANCE NO. 3940
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF HUNTINGTON BEACH
AMENDING CHAPTER 8.40 OF THE HUNTINGTON BEACH MUNICIPAL
CODE RELATING TO NOISE CONTROL
The City Council of the City of Huntington Beach does hereby ordain as follows:
SECTION 1. Section 8.40.030 of the Huntington Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended to read as follows:
8.40.030 Noise level measurement criteria. Any noise level measurements made
pursuant to the provisions of this chapter shall be performed using a sound level meter or
similar device that accurately measures noise levels and produces data that may be used
in administrative or judicial proceedings. The location for measuring noise levels may be
at any legally accessible vantage point where a reasonable person would conclude the
noise may exceed this Chapter's noise standards. All noise level measurements shall be
performed in accordance with the procedures established by the City.
SECTION 2. Section 8.40.050 of the Huntington Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended to read as follows:
8.40.050 Exterior noise standards.
(a) The following noise standards, unless otherwise specifically indicated, shall apply to
all residential property within a designated noise zone:
Exterior Noise Standards
Noise Zone Noise Level Time Period
1 55 db(A) 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.
50dbA 10 p.m. - 7a.m.
on
2 55 db(A), An ime
3 60 db A An ime
4 70 db(A) Anytime
The above standard does not apply to the establishment of multi-family residence private
balconies and patios. Multi-family developments with balconies or patios that do not
meet CNEL standards are required to provide occupancy disclosure notices to all future
tenants regarding potential noise impacts.
(b) In the event the alleged offensive noise consists entirely of impact noise, simple
tone noise, speech, music, or any combination thereof, each of the above noise levels
shall be reduced by five (5) db(A).
11-2957/66436 1
Ordinance No. 3940
SECTION 3. Section 8.40.090 of the Huntington Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended to read as follows:
8.40.090 Special provisions. The following activities shall be exempt from the
provisions of this chapter:
(a) School bands, school athletics and school entertainment events, provided such events
are conducted on school property or authorized by special permit from the City;
(b) Activities otherwise lawfully conducted in public parks, public playgrounds and
public or private school grounds;
(c) Any mechanical device, apparatus or equipment used, related to or connected with
emergency machinery, vehicle or work;
(d) Noise sources associated with construction, repair, remodeling, or grading of any real
property; provided a permit has been obtained from the City as provided herein; and
provided said activities do not take place between the hours of 8 p.m. and 7 a.m. on
weekdays, including Saturday, or at any time on Sunday or a federal holiday.
(e) All mechanical devices, apparatus or equipment which are utilized for the protection
or harvest of agricultural crops during periods of potential or actual frost damage or
other adverse weather conditions;
(f) Mobile noise sources associated with agricultural operations provided such operations
do not take place between the hours of 8 p.m. and 7 a.m. on weekdays, including
Saturday, or at any time on Sunday or a federal holiday.
(g) Mobile noise sources associated with agricultural pest control through pesticide
application,provided that the application is made in accordance with restricted
material permits issued by or regulations enforced by the Agricultural Commissioner;
(h) Noise sources associated with the maintenance of real property provided said
activities take place between the hours of 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. on any day except Sunday
or between the hours of 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Sunday or a federal holiday;
(i) Leaf blower shall be governed by section 8.40.095.
(j) Any activity or equipment to the extent that design regulation thereof has been pre-
empted by state or federal laws.
(k) Noise sources associated with temporary public or private events located on private or
public property provided a permit has been obtained from the City as provided herein.
SECTION 4. Section 8.40.120 of the Huntington Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended to read as follows:
8.40.120 Manner of enforcement. The Director of Planning and Building ("Director")
or Police Chief and their duly authorized representatives are directed to enforce the
provisions of this chapter. The Director or Police Chief and their duly authorized
representatives are authorized pursuant to Penal Code section 836.5 to arrest any person
without a warrant when they have reasonable cause to believe that such person has
committed a misdemeanor in their presence.
11-2957/66436 2
If the Director or Police Chief and their duly authorized representatives conduct db(A)
tests or other noise measurement readings for purposes of enforcement, and the noise
level is found to exceed those levels stipulated as permissible in this chapter, the owner or
operator of the noise source shall be required to pay the cost of the db(A)tests or
readings.
No person shall interfere with, oppose or resist any authorized person charged with the
enforcement of this chapter while such person is engaged in the performance of his duty.
SECTION 5. Section 8.40.130 of the Huntington Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended to read as follows:
8.40.130 Permit Process. Applications for a permit to deviate from the provisions
herein shall be initiated by submitting an application and data as proscribed by the
Director and paying the required fee. The application form will be as directed by the
Director and shall set forth all facts regarding the request for deviation including any
actions the Applicant took to comply with the provisions of this Chapter, the reasons why
compliance cannot be achieved and a proposed method of achieving compliance, if such
method exists. The Applicant must demonstrate, at a minimum, the need to deviate from
the noise level produces a greater benefit to the community which outweighs the
temporary increase in noise level above the requirements of this Chapter. Within 10 days
after receipt of a complete application, the Director will notify affected property owners
within 300 feet of the alleged/proposed noise source of the application for a permit to
temporarily deviate from this code.
A separate application shall be filed for each noise source; provided, however, that
several mobile sources under common ownership, or several fixed sources on a single
property may be combined into one application.
Upon receipt of said application and fee, the Director may approve, conditionally approve
or deny the permit upon finding that the above factors as well as factors included in
section 8.40.111 of this Chapter are satisfied. The permit shall become effective five
days after action by the Director unless appealed as provided herein.
The Director will provide the applicant as well as the affected property owners notice of
decision within 24 hours after the decision is made.
An applicant for a permit shall remain subject to prosecution under the terms of this
chapter until a permit is granted.
SECTION 6. Section 8.40.150 of the Huntington Beach Municipal Code is hereby
amended to read as follows:
8.40.150 Appeals.
A. Notice of Appeal. A person desiring to appeal the Director's decision shall file a
written notice of appeal with the Director within five days after the Director's
decision. Notice of appeal shall be accompanied by a fee as set forth in the City's
current fee resolution.
11-2957/66436 3
Ordinance No. 3940
B. Form of Notice on Appeal. The notice of appeal shall contain the name and address
of the person appealing the action,the decision appealed from and the grounds for the
appeal. The Director may provide the form of the notice of appeal. A defect in the
form of the notice does not affect the validity or right to an appeal.
C. Action on Appeal. The Director shall set the matter for hearing before a hearing
officer and shall give notice of the hearing on the appeal in the time and manner set
forth in California Government Code Section 65091.
D. De Novo Hearing. The hearing officer shall hear the appeal as a new matter. The
original applicant has the burden of proof. The hearing officer may act upon the
application, either granting it, conditionally granting it or denying it, irrespective of
the precise grounds or scope of the appeal. In addition to considering the testimony
and evidence presented at the hearing on the appeal, the hearing officer shall consider
all pertinent information from the file as a result of the previous hearings from which
the appeal is taken.
E. Decision on Appeal. The hearing officer may reverse or affirm in whole or in part, or
may modify the hearing officer's decision that is being appealed. The decision of the
hearing officer is final on the date of its decision.
SECTION 7. Sections 8.40.140, 8.40.160, and 8.40.170 are hereby deleted in its
entirety.
SECTION 5. All other provisions of Chapter 8.40 not amended hereby remain in full
force and effect.
SECTION 6. This ordinance shall become effective 30 days after its adoption.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Huntington Beach at a
regular meeting thereof held on the 4 t h day of Iunp , 2012.
Mayor
ATTEST: a INITIA D P OVED:
City Clerk Dire o Bu ding and Planning
REVI ND APPROVED:
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
�c
i anager
City ttorney
11-2957/66436 4
Ord. No. 3940
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF ORANGE ) SS:
CITY OF HUNTINGTON BEACH )
I, JOAN L. FLYNN, the duly elected, qualified City Clerk of the City of
Huntington Beach, and ex-officio Clerk of the City Council of said City, do hereby
certify that the whole number of members of the City Council of the City of Huntington
Beach is seven; that the foregoing ordinance was read to said City Council at a regular
meeting thereof held on May 7, 2012, and was again read to said City Council at a
regular meeting thereof held on.Tune 4, 2012, and was passed and adopted by the
affirmative vote of at least a majority of all the members of said City Council.
AYES: Harper, Dwyer, Hansen, Carchio, Bohr, Boardman
NOES: None
ABSENT: Shaw
ABSTAIN: None
1,Joan L.Flynn,CITY CLERK of the City of Huntington
Beach and ex-officio Clerk of the City Council,do hereby
certify that a synopsis of this ordinance has been
published in the Huntington Beach Fountain Valley
Independent on June 14,2012.
In accordance with the City Charter of said City
Joan L. Flynn,Cijy Clerk C' Clerk and ex-officio erk
Senior Deputy City Clerk of the City Council of the City
of Huntington Beach, California
ATTACHMENT #2
Ordinance No. 3940
LEGISL.A.'TWE DRAFT
Huntington Beach Municipal Code
8.40.010--8.40.020(d)
Chanter 8.40
NOISE CONTROL
(1006-10163, 1072-11/64, 1354-11/67,1935-11/74,2364-5179,2379-7/79, Urg.2434-5/80,2533-2/82,2788-
9/85, 3131-4/92,
3216-12/93,3514-12/01)
Sections'
8.40.010 Declaration of policy
8.40.020 Definitions
8.40.030 Noise level measurement criteria
8.40.040 Designated noise zones
8.40.050 Exterior noise standards
8.40.060 Exterior noise levels prohibited
8.40.070 Interior noise standards
8.40.080 Interior levels of noise prohibited
8.40.090 Special provisions
8.40.095 Leaf blowers
8.40.100 Schools,hospitals and churches--Special provisions
8.40.110 Air conditioning, refrigeration--Special provisions
8.40.111 Prohibited noises
8.40.112 Loud noises
8.40.120 Manner of enforcement
8.40.130 VaT-ia- e pr-eee"-ePermit Process
8.4' .F L se—Y"LLtILLTIGeBoard
8.40.150 Appeals
Q nn inn nrro is it +; o .f ho,,;,, ,
b
8-.40.170 Aecion of eeune4
8.40.180 Violations--Misdemeanor
8.40.010 Declaration of policy. In order to control unnecessary, excessive and
annoying sounds emanating from incorporated areas of the City, it is hereby
declared to be the policy of the City to prohibit such sounds generated from all
sources as specified in this chapter.
It is determined that certain noise levels are detrimental to the public health,
welfare and safety and contrary to public interest, therefore,the City Council does
ordain and declare that creating,maintaining, causing or allowing to create,
maintain or cause any noise in a manner prohibited by, or not in conformity with
the provisions of this chapter,is a public nuisance and shall be punishable as such.
(2379-7/79)
8.40.020 Definitions. The following words,phrases and terms as used in this
chapter shall have the meaning as indicated below:
(a) "Ambient noise level" shall mean the all-encompassing noise level associated
with a given environment,being a composite of sounds from all sources,
excluding the alleged offensive noise, at the location and approximate time at
which a comparison with the alleged offensive noise is to be made.
79182
xs -993- Item 14. - 9
(b) "Commercial property" shall mean a parcel of real property which is
developed and used either in part or in whole for commercial purposes
including,but not limited to, retail and wholesale businesses and professional
offices.
(c) "Cumulative period" shall mean an additive period or time composed of
individual time segments which may be continuous or interrupted.
(d) 'Decibel' (db) shall mean 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 ten (10)of this ratio.
12/01
8.40.020(e)--8.40.040 Huntington Beach
Municipal Code
(e) 'Emergency machinery, vehicle or work" shall mean 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.
(f) "Fixed noise source" shall mean 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.
(g) "Grading" shall mean any excavating or filling of earth material, or any
combination thereof, conducted to prepare said site for construction or the
placement of the improvements thereon.
(h) "Impact noise" shall mean the noise produced by the collision of one mass in
motion with a second mass which may be either in motion or at rest.
(i) "Industrial property" shall mean a parcel of real property which is developed
and used in part or in whole for manufacturing purposes including research
and development uses.
(j) "Mobile noise source" shall mean any noise source other than a fixed noise
source.
(k) "Noise level" shall mean 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) micropascals (micronewtons per square meter). The
unit of measurement shall be designated as db(A).
(1) "Person" shall mean a person, firm, association, co-partnership,joint venture,
corporation or any entity, public or private in nature.
(m)"Residential property" shall mean a parcel of real property which is developed
and used either in part or in whole for residential purposes, other than
transient uses such as hotels or motels.
79182
Item 14. - 10 HB -994-
(n) "Predominant tone noise" shall mean a noise characterized by a predominant
frequency or frequencies so that other frequencies cannot be readily
distinguished.
(o) "Sound pressure level" of a sound, in decibels, shall mean twenty (20)times
the logarithm to the base of ten(10) of the ratio of the pressure of the sound to
a reference pressure, which reference pressure shall be explicitly stated.
(2379-7/79)
8.40.030 Noise level measurement criteria. Any noise level measurements
made pursuant to the provisions of this chapter shall be performed using a sound
level meter or similar device that accurately measures noise levels and produces
data that may be used in administrative or judicial proceedingsas defined in this
ehepter. The location seleeted for measuring e r-noise levels shall--pay be at
any legally accessible vantage point where a reasonable person would conclude
the noise ingy exceed this Cha ter's noise standards.
the off-ender or anywhere an the affeeted prepef�y. Iffterief noise Measufeta
shall be made within the &Meted tmit.. The meas�ar-efflefA shall be made at a
in the aMeted ii�at least fe� (4) feet ftein the wall, eeiling of floor-1-- I.-
All noise level measurements shall be performed in accordance
with the procedures established by the City„reeed fa ,Wes an r���
(2379-7/79)
8.40.040 Designated noise zones. The properties hereinafter described, whether
within or without the City, are hereby assigned to the following noise zones:
Noise Zone l: All residential properties;
Noise Zone 2: All professional office and public institutional properties;
Noise Zone 3: All commercial properties with the exception of professional office
properties; and
Noise Zone 4: All industrial properties. (2379-7/79)
12/01
79182
xB -995- Item 14. - 11
Huntington Beach Municipal Code
8.40.050--8.40.070(a)
8.40.050 Exterior noise standards.
(a) The following noise standards,unless otherwise specifically indicated, shall
apply to all residential property within a designated noise zone:
Exterior Noise Standards
Noise Zone Noise Level Time Period
1 55 db(A) 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.
50 db A 10 i1m,
- 7 a.m.
2 55 db(A) Anytime
3 60 db(A) An ime
4 70 db(A) Anytime
The above standard does not apply to the establishment of multi-fainily residence
private balconies and patios. Multi-familydelopments with balconies or patios
that do not meet CNEL standards are required to provide occupancy disclosure
notices to all future tenants regarding potential noise unpacts.
(b) In the event the alleged offensive noise consists entirely of impact noise,
simple tone noise, speech,music, or any combination thereof, each of the above
noise levels shall be reduced by five (5) db(A). (2379-8/79,2788-9/85)
8.40.060 Exterior noise levels prohibited. It shall be unlawful for any person at
any location within the incorporated area of the City to create any noise, or to
allow the creation of any noise on property owned, leased, occupied, or otherwise
controlled by such person,which causes the noise level when measured on any
residential,public institutional,professional, commercial or industrial property,
either within or without the City,to exceed the applicable noise standards:
(a) For a cumulative period of more than thirty(30)minutes in any hour;
(b) Plus 5 db(A) for a cumulative period of more than fifteen(15)minutes in any
hour;
(c) Plus 10 db(A) for a cumulative period of more than five (5)minutes in any
hour;
(d) Plus 15 db(A) for a cumulative period of more than one(1)minute in any
hour; or
(e) Plus 20 db(A)for any period of time.
In the event the ambient noise level exceeds any of the first four noise limit
categories above, the cumulative period applicable to said category shall be
increased to reflect said ambient noise level. In the event the ambient noise level
exceeds the fifth noise limit category,the maximum allowable noise level under
79182
Item 14. - 12 HB -996-
said category shall be increased to reflect the maximum ambient noise level. (2379-
7/79)
8.40.070 Interior noise standards.
(a) The following noise standards,unless otherwise specifically indicated, shall
apply to all real property within a designated noise zone:
Interior Noise Standards
Noise Zone Noise Level Time Period
1 55 db(A) 7 a.m. -10 p.m.
45 db A 10 in. - 7 a.m.
2, 3, 4 55 db A Anytime
12101
79182
xB -997- Item 14. - 13
8.40.070(b)--8.40.090(g) Huntington Beach
Municipal Code
(b) In the event the alleged offensive noise consists entirely of impact noise,
simple tone noise, speech, music, or any combination thereof, each of the
above noise levels shall be reduced by five (5) db(A). (2379-7/79,2788-9/85)
8.40.080 Interior levels of noise prohibited. It shall be unlawful for any person
at any location within the incorporated area of the City to create any noise, or to
allow the creation of any noise on property owned, leased, occupied, or otherwise
controlled by such person, which causes the noise level when measured within
any other structure on any residential, public institutional; commercial, or
industrial property to exceed:
(a) The noise standard for a cumulative period of more than five minutes in any
hour;
(b) The noise standards plus 5 db(A)for a cumulative period of more than one(1)
minute in any hour; or
(c) The noise standard plus 10 db(a) for any period of time.
In the event the ambient noise level exceeds either of the first two noise limit
categories above,the cumulative period applicable to said category shall be
increased to reflect said ambient noise level. In the event the ambient noise level
exceeds the third noise level,the maximum allowable noise level under said
category shall be increased to reflect the maximum ambient noise level.
Each of the noise limits specified above shall be reduced by 5 db(A)for impact or
predominant tone noises, or for noises consisting of speech or music.
In the event that the noise source and the affected property are within different
noise zones,the noise standards of the affected property shall apply. (2379-7/79)
8.40.090 Special provisions. The following activities shall be exempt from the
provisions of this chapter:
(a) School bands, school athletics and school entertainment events, provided such
events are conducted on school property or authorized by special permit from
the City;
(b) Activities otherwise lawfully conducted in public parks,public playgrounds
and public or private school grounds;
(c) Any mechanical device, apparatus or equipment used,related to or connected
with emergency machinery,vehicle or work;
(d) Noise sources associated with construction, repair, remodeling, or grading of
any real property; provided a permit has been obtained from the City as
provided herein; and provided said activities do not take place between the
hours of 8 p.m. and 7 a.m. on weekdays, including Saturday, or at any time on
Sunday or a federal holiday.
79182
Item 14. - 14 1413 -998-
(e) All mechanical devices, apparatus or equipment which are utilized for the
protection or harvest of agricultural crops during periods of potential or actual
frost damage or other adverse weather conditions;
(f) Mobile noise sources associated with agricultural operations provided such
operations do not take place between the hours of 8 p.m. and 7 a.m. on
weekdays, including Saturday, or at any time on Sunday or a federal holiday.
(g) Mobile noise sources associated with agricultural pest control through
pesticide application,provided that the application is made in accordance with
restricted material permits issued by or regulations enforced by the
Agricultural Commissioner;
12/01
79182
HB -999- Item 14. - 15
Huntington Beach Municipal Code
8.40.090(h)--8.4 0.095(c)(5)
(h) Noise sources associated with the maintenance of real property provided said
activities take place between the hours of 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. on any day except
Sunday or between the hours of 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Sunday or a federal
holiday;
(i) Leaf blower shall be governed by section 8.40.095, (3131-4/92)
(j) Any activity or equipment to the extent that design regulation thereof has been
pre-empted by state or federal laws. (2379-7/79)
(k) Noise sources associated with temporgy public or private events located on
private or public property provided a permit has been obtained from the City
as provided herein.
8.40.095 Leaf blowers. (3131-4/92)
(a) Definitions. As used in this section,the following terms shall have meanings
as set forth below: (3131-4/92)
(1) "Leaf blower" means any machine, however powered,used to blow
leaves, dirt and other debris off sidewalks, driveways, lawns and other
surfaces. (3131-4/92)
(2) "Parcel" means an area of real property with a separate or distinct number
or other designation shown on a plat recorded in the office of the County
Recorder. Contiguous parcels owned by the same individual or entity
shall be considered one parcel for purposes of this section. (3131-4/92)
(b) Unlawful to propel debris beyond parcel boundga. It shall be unlawful for
any person to use or operate any leaf blower in such a manner as to blow,
dispel or make airborne, dust, leaves, grass cuttings,paper,trash or any other
type of unattached debris or material, beyond the parcel boundaries of the
parcel being cleaned, unless the consent of the adjoining owner or person in
possession is obtained. It shall be unlawful for any person to use or operate
any leaf blower within the City in such a way as to blow leaves, dirt and other
debris onto the public rights-of-way or private property and to allow such
debris to remain there in excess of thirty(30)minutes. (3131-4/92)
(c) Special prohibitions. It shall be unlawful for any person to operate a leaf
blower within a residential zone or within one hundred feet of a residential
zone of the City of Huntington Beach, except under the following conditions:
(3131-4/92)
(1) Time restriction. Noise sources associated with the maintenance of real
property provided said activities take place between the hours of 8:00
A.M. and 8:00 P.M. on any day except Sunday or between the hours of
9:00 A.M. and 6:00 P.M. on Sunday or a federal holiday. (3131-4/92)
(2) Distance restriction. Leaf blowers shall not be operated within a
horizontal distance of ten (10)feet of any operable window, door, or
mechanical air intake opening or duct;
79182
Item 14. - 16 KB -1000-
(3131-4/92)
(3) Duration of use restriction. Leaf blowers shall not be operated for more
than fifteen(15)minutes per hour,per day, on parcels less than one-half
acre and no more than thirty(30)minutes per hour on parcels greater than
one-half acre up to one acre. Leaf blowers shall not be operated for more
than two (2)hours on parcels of one acre or more. (3131-4/92)
(4) Number restriction. No person shall operate more than one (1) leaf blower
per parcel on one-half acre,no more than two (2) leaf blowers on parcels
greater than one-half acre and no more than three (3) leaf blowers on
parcels greater than one acre or more. (3131-4/92)
(5) The maximum decibel level of 70 dba as measured ten(10) feet from the
leaf blower shall not be exceeded. (3131-4/92)
12/01
79182
HB -1001- Item 14. - 17
8.40.100--8.40.112(c) Huntington Beach
Municipal Code
8.40.100 Schools, hospitals and churches--Special provisions. It shall be
unlawful for any person to create any noise which causes the noise level at any
school,hospital or church while same is in use,to exceed the noise limits
specified for exterior noise standards in this chapter, or which noise level
unreasonably interferes with the use of such institutions or which unreasonably
disturbs or annoys patients in the hospital, provided conspicuous signs are
displayed in three (3) separate locations within one-tenth(1/10) of a mile of the
institution indicating the presence of a school, hospital or church. (2379-7/79)
8.40.110 Air conditioning, refrigeration--Special provisions. During a one
(1) year period following the effective date of this chapter,the noise level
standards specified in this chapter shall be increased by 5 db(A) where the alleged
noise source is an air-conditioning apparatus or refrigeration system, which was
installed prior to the effective date of this chapter. (2379-7/79)
8.40.111 Prohibited noises. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this
chapter and in addition thereto, it shall be unlawful for any person to willfully
make or continue, or cause to be made or continued, any loud,unnecessary or
unusual noise which disturbs the peace or quiet of any neighborhood or which
causes discomfort or annoyance to any reasonable person of normal sensitiveness
residing in the area. (3216-12/93)
The standard which may be considered in determining whether a violation of the
provisions of this section exists may include, but not be limited to,the following:
(3216-12/93)
(a) The level of the noise; (3216-12/93)
(b) Whether the nature of the noise is usual or unusual; (3216-12/93)
(c) Whether the origin of the noise is natural or unnatural; (3216-12/93)
(d) The level and intensity of the background noise, if any; (3216-12/93)
(e) The proximity of the noise to residential sleeping facilities; (3216-12/93)
(f) The nature and zoning of the area within which the noise emanates;
(3216-12/93)
(g) The density of the inhabitation of the area within which the noise emanates;
(3216-12/93)
(h) The time of the day and night the noise occurs; (3216-12/93)
(i) The duration of the noise; (3216-12/93)
0) Whether the noise is recurrent, intermittent or constant; and (3216-12/93)
(k) Whether the noise is produced by a commercial or noncommercial activity.
(3216-12/93)
79182
Item 14. - 18 KB -1002-
8.40.112 Loud noises. It shall be unlawful for any person to: (3514-12/01)
(a) Use, operate, or permit to be operated any radio,receiving set or device,
television set,musical instrument,phonograph, CD,DVD, tape player,juke
box, or other machine or device for producing or reproducing sound in such a
manner as to disturb the peace, quiet,and comfort of other persons. (3514-
12/01)
(b) Make or allow to be made any noise which continues for more than a five
minute period between the hours of 1 OPM and 7AM if such noise is audible
for fifty feet or more from the source of the noise. (3514-12/01)
(c) Maintain,manage, or control any business or residential property in violation
of sections (a) or(b). (3514-12/01)
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79182
HB -1.003- Item 14. - 19
Huntington Beach Municipal Code
8.40.112(d)--8.40.140
(d) Own,maintain, control, operate,take care or custody of, or otherwise provide
any premises, and allow noise to continue after being informed, anytime
within the preceding thirty days by the Police Department,that a violation of
this chapter has been committed on said premises. (3514-12/01)
(e) Violations of this section are hereby declared a nuisance. (3514-12/01)
8.40.120 Manner of enforcement. ,
thethe Orange Cotu, y Health Off; efThe Director ("Director") or Police Chief and
tr VlUllbN VVU11Lj'1
leis-their duly authorized representatives are directed to enforce the provisions of
this chapter. The Orange County Health nfr;eerD rector or Police Chief and his
their duly authorized representatives are authorized pursuant to Penal Code
section 836.5 to arrest any person without a warrant when they have reasonable
cause to believe that such person has committed a misdemeanor in their presence.
(3216-12/93)
If the Orange Ce:E y Heald, O ffiee,Director or Police Chief or-and his--their duly
authorized representatives conduct db(A)tests or other noise measurement
readings for purposes of enforcement, and the noise level is found to exceed those
levels stipulated as permissible in this chapter,the owner or operator of the noise
source shall be required to pay the cost of the db(A)tests or readings.
No person shall interfere with, oppose or resist any authorized person charged
with the enforcement of this chapter while such person is engaged in the
performance of his duty.
(2379-7/79, 2533-2/82)
8.40.130 Va � Permit Process. The owner- or- er t^ of
=Mrl-frxe -rcn _ E "'c-eftvm cn thereof wherein said
owner ef operator sha]4 se!forth all aefieBs taken ie eemply with said pfevisiofls-,
the reasons „ham. ; "edi-cto c ea„liau ce c iiet be c ebieyed, a-prpvse meihaehievin
and a proposed time sehe"le for its aeeemplisbinent.
b f
Said Ur/tJ11V UG1V11 J1iUli VG
aeeempanied by a fee in the amount of sevefAy five-
dollars 'Q7" Applications for a permit to deviate from the provisions herein shall
be initiated by submitting an application and data as proscribed by the Director
and paying the required fee. The application forin will be as directed by the
Director and shall set forth all facts re ag rdin the request for deviation including
any actions the Applicant took to comply with the provisions of this Chapter,the
reasons why compliance cannot be achieved and a proposed method of achieving
compliance, if such method exists. The Applicant must demonstrate, at a
minimum, the need to deviate from the noise level produces a greater benefit to
the commuiuty which outweighs the temporary increase in noise level above the
requirements of this Chapter. Within 10 days after receipt of a complete
application,the Director will notify affected property owners within 300 feet of
the alleged/proposed noise source of the application for a permit to temporarily
deviate from this code.
A separate application shall be filed for each noise source; provided,however,
that several mobile sources under common ownership, or several fixed sources on
a single property may be combined into one application.
79182
Item 14. - 20 HB -1004-
Upon receipt of said application and fee,the nea'�^fficer-Director may approve,
conditionally Uprove or deny the permit upon finding that the above factors as
well as factors included in section 8.40.111 of this Chapter are satisfied. The
permit shall become effective five days after action by the Director unless
appealed as provided herein. shallfee r it YOM his.o nd -ie flier-eon
The Director will provide the applicant as well as the affected property owners
notice of decision within 24 hours after the decision is made.
An applicant for a varianee- shall remain subject to prosecution under the
terms of this chapter until a var-ianee-pen it is granted. (2379-7/79)
8.40.140 Noise vafianee board. The noise Varianee Beai-d "I evaluate all
vafianees M ro „eet to tie-fer eenVlianee „bj eet to h to nd t
with th . . of this ehapter. Said tefffis, eendifiens and requirements may
ineWdee e limitatiens on noise levels aftd b
aehievm* b •
noise;Ift its determination said board shall eensider-the inagnittide of niaismee eaused by
the eff-ensi�ve
noise; study, design,
7 the eeeneinie faeter-s related te age and iisef6l life of equipment;
and the general publie intefest and welfare. My varianee grapAed by said bear
shall be by feseltAien and shall be transmitted to the 14ea-kh Offieer
ii
79182
HB -1005- Item 14. - 21
&.49-14 09.49a99 HuMiegtoageaeh
Maf►isipa!Cede
Members of the va,.;anee B n,.,l shall ben atea by, and shall serve a+the
vote shall be reVked, s"peil f a n+i
The Health Offieer, or his appointed r-epf-eseiAaliye, shall be a Befiveti
offieie n ho,.of the va,.ianee Beard, and shall n +as seuetar-y of the h, -rd
at sueh times and loeations as said board shall deteffnine. All stieh Meetings of the noise Varianee Bear-d shall be held at the eall of the . I I
s shall
(2379
8.40.150 Appeals. «r;+hi„ fifteen (1 5) ,says f llowing fietiee+ the City e f the
deeisi.�n E)f the Vafia„ee Bear.l o ,.li„n+i.,,, the n pl;,.afft the Heakh
u�.vaavr-vl Giza+ r � �
Offieer-
or any membef ef the City
may appeai the deeision to the Ci
> 7
E6mneil byfiling a notice of-apyea4 vAl�seefetar-y ef-the Variance Bea,•.l hi
the easeof an appeal by the applieant fef a vafianee,the nefiee of appeal shall be
aeeempanied by a fee to be computed by the n etafy en the basis of the
estimated eest of preparing the malefials r-equifed te be forwarded to the City
the estimated cost +h n plieant shall pay the .li ff r-en e to the s re4ar-y an the
�L1V VJ1.1111GL�VaI VVJL�Ll1V U�J�ILi4U
Je Vle+a shall pay the „+ f n o s to the pli ^+ -(2379-7/79)
A. Notice of Appeal. A person desiring to appeal the Director's decision shall
file a written notice of appeal with the Director within 5 days after the
Director's decision. Notice of appeal shall be accompanied by a fee as set
forth in the City's current fee resolution.
B. Form of Notice on Appeal. The notice of appeal shall contain the name and
address of the person appealing the action,the decision appealed from and the
grounds for the appeal. The Director may_provide the form of the notice of
appeal. A defect in the form of the notice does not affect the validity or right
to an appeal.
C. Action on Appeal. The Director shall set the matter for hearing before a
hearing officer and shall give notice of the hearing on the appeal in the time
and manner set forth in California Government Code Section 65 09 1.
D. De Novo Hearing. The hearing officer shall hear the appeal as a new matter.
The original applicant has the burden of proof The hearing officer may act
upon the application, either juanting it conditionally granting it or denyijj i
irrespective of the precise grounds or scope of the appeal. In addition to
considering the testimony and evidence presented at the hearing on the appeal,
the hearing officer shall consider all pertinent information from the file as a
result of the previous hearings from which the appeal is taken.
79182
Item 14. - 22 HB -1006-
E. Decision on Appeal. The hearing officer may reverse or affirm in whole or hi
part, or ma modify the hearing officer's decision that is being_aupealed. The
decision of the hearing officer is final on the date of its decision.
rLeei-pt of-a iae iee ef appeal e up lees the seeretafy efthe Var-ianee
Bad 111 ferw-ar-d to the City Counei—I-eepies ef the appheatien fer-vananee;the
e e.,datien „fthe Heal+b. Offiee,-.f 93e netiee of appeal;1. nll e :idenee
said a , lie.,+ie,. e e ti>ed by the Varia ee Beard e," e
l.3xv d its deiniev
lx
e
in its disere6 ,
the date set-faf hearing of the-appeal. The notice shell be,-..ailed t least en(10)
r-379 ono)
1zvr�,--rri-�7
o 4n 170 Aetion of Geti eill. Within E+y (60) days f lleyying its,e,.e,pt efthe
ne ine of the appeal,tl3eGi G-eel ,.ei -Q:-h- 1 either affiiTa, me if r o«r veise t- e
shall be based upen the Cky I
s evaluafien ef the matters submitted to it in
light f the pe .,f ffe.l e., the Vaii ,wee Beai:d fflid+l,e f teter-s+ 1.e
V
een
n,.le,.ell as net_out in this ehaptefL.
A -,.fnNe r. f ai4 ets den,n,e.", er,,,Hn may the ,l d a e4 the Va e Be r 1_to een lue4
ftirther-pr-eeeedings en said applieatien. Failufe of the City Cp"LLaexiG L, H+
lTL41111111,
period shall n nst,+.,+e nfE;,,n do of the beard's de (7Z70_7 -9)
8.40.180 Violations--Misdemeanor. Any person violating any of the provisions
of this chapter shall be deemed guilty of a MISDEMEANOR. Each day such
violation is committed or permitted to continue shall constitute a separate offense
and shall be punishable as such. The provisions of this chapter shall not be
construed as permitting conduct not proscribed herein and shall not affect the
enforceability of any other applicable provisions of law. (2379-7/79)
12/01
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xs -1007- Item 14. - 23