§ 2-22-56. Definitions.

The words and phrases used in this article are defined below, and all terminology used in this article not defined below shall be in conformance with applicable publications of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) or its successor body:

A-weighted level (dBA): The total broadband sound level of the noise spectrum as measured using the A weighted network of a sound level meter. The unit of measurement is the dBA. Sound level meter settings shall be for fast response in the case of motor vehicle and like measurements.

Ambient noise: The all-encompassing noise associated with a given environment, being usually a composite of sound from many sources near and far.

Decibel (dB): A division of a logarithmic scale used to express the ratio of two (2) like quantities proportional to power or energy. The ratio is expressed in decibels by multiplying its common logarithm by ten (10).

Emergency: A situation wherein immediate work is necessary to restore property to a safe condition following a public calamity or immediate work is required to protect persons or property from an imminent exposure to danger, harm or hazard.

Gross combination weight rating (GCWR): The value specified by the manufacturer as the loaded weight of a combination vehicle.

Gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR): The value specified by the manufacturer as the loaded weight of a single vehicle.

Motor vehicle: Any device or vehicle including, but not limited to, automobiles, motorcycles, motor trucks, trailers, campers, go-carts, swamp buggies, dune buggies and other recreational vehicles, and all other vehicles capable of operation over the roadways and propelled by power other than muscular power; the term does not include traction engines, road rollers, implements of husbandry and other agricultural equipment and such vehicles as run only upon a track.

Motorcycle: Any motor vehicle having a seat or saddle for the use of the rider and designed to travel on not more than three (3) wheels in contact with the ground, but excluding a tractor.

Motor-driven cycle: Every motorcycle and every motor scooter with a motor which produces not to exceed five (5) brake horsepower, including every bicycle with a motor attached.

Noise: One or a group of loud, harsh, nonharmonious sounds or vibrations which are unpleasant and irritating to the ear.

Noise level: The sound pressure level as measured in dBA, unless otherwise specified. A measurement of noise must be at least five (5) dB above the ambient noise level.

Operator: Any deputy of the county sheriff's department or any employee of the county who is designated by the board of county commissioners and charged with the responsibility of making noise measurements, as provided for herein, who is certified to conduct sound level measurements by the Florida Highway Patrol and the department of environmental regulation.

Sound level meter: An instrument to measure the sound pressure level of relatively continuous and broadband. The sound level meter used to determine compliance with this article shall meet or exceed the requirements for type 2 sound level meter in accordance with ANSI Standard S1.4.

Sound pressure level: The squared ratio expressed in decibels of the sound pressure under consideration to the standard reference pressure of 0.0002 dyne/cm . The ratio is squared because pressure squared, and not pressure, is proportional to energy.

Vehicle: Any device, in, upon or by which any person or property is or may be transported or drawn upon a highway, except bicycles or "mopeds" or devices used exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks.

(Ord. No. 79-5, § 2, 4-24-79)

State law reference

Similar provisions, F.S. § 316.293.