§ 6-8-202. Definitions.

The following definitions are provided to clarify words, phrases and terms used in this chapter.

Ambient noise level: 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.

Cumulative period: An additive period of time composed of individual time segments which may be continuous or interrupted.

Decibel (dB): A unit of noise measurement indicating the loudness of sound, based on logarithmic (base 10) scale.

Emergency work: Any mechanical device, apparatus or equipment which is 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.

Grading: Any excavating or filling of earth material or any combination thereof conducted to prepare a site for construction or the placement of the improvements thereon.

Impact noises: The noise produced by the collision of one mass in motion with a second mass which may be either in motion or at rest.

Noise level: The "A" weighted sound pressure level in decibels obtained by using a sound level meter. The "A" weighted discriminates against the lower and higher frequencies according to a relationship with the sensitivity of the human ear. The unit of measurement is designated as dB(A).

Predominant tone noise: A noise characterized by a predominant frequency or frequencies so that other frequencies cannot be readily distinguished.

Stationary noise source: The source which is often referred to as "fixed source" (non-transportation-related) including, but not limited to, mechanical electric equipment, various power tools, construction, commercial, industrial and agricultural activity and animal noise.

(Code 1976, § VI.K-302; Ord. No. 84-18, 9-11-84)