The three types of noise variances may be granted by DPD--temporary, economic, and technical--as detailed below.
Temporary Variances
Definition: The DPD Administrator may grant a temporary noise variance--not to exceed 14 days--for any activity, use, process, or equipment which does not annoy a substantial number of people and does not endanger public health or safety (as determined by the Administrator in accordance with applicable rules and regulations).
Example: Repaving an arterial, such as Aurora Avenue, where a lane closure cannot happen during the day, so workers need to work at night.
To apply for a temporary noise variance, you must submit a Noise Variance Request Form. This is a three-part form which includes details about the variance being requested, a list of criteria and questions that must be answered, and your billing information. Your submittal options include:
- Using the PDF version (244KB). Print a copy, fill in the blanks (using additional paper if necessary), and submit it in person, by mail, or by fax; OR
- Using the Excel file (94KB). Save the file to your hard drive, fill in the blanks, and email it to a DPD Noise Abatement Coordinator. (NOTE: There are three worksheets within the Excel file that must be completed.)
Economic Variances
Definition: An economic noise variance may be granted by the DPD Administrator on the grounds that compliance with the particular requirement(s) from which the variance is sought will require taking measures which, because of their extent or cost, must be spread over a period of time. The duration of an economic variance shall be for a period not to exceed such reasonable time as is taking of the necessary measures. An economic noise variance must contain a timetable for taking action in an expeditious manner and be conditioned on adherence to the timetable.
Example: An industrial plant is making noise, but noise mitigation would be virtually impossible without shutting the plant down.
To apply for an economic variance, contact a DPD Noise Abatement Coordinator.
Technical Variances
Definition: A technical noise variance may be granted by the DPD Administrator on the grounds that there is no practical means known or available for adequately preventing, abating, or controlling the noise involved. Any technical variance is subject to the holder's taking any alternative measures that the Administrator may prescribe. The duration of each technical noise variance extends until practical means for preventing, abating or controlling become known or available. The holder of a technical variance, as required by the Administrator, must make reports to the Administrator detailing actions taken to develop a means of noise control or to reduce the noise involved, and must relate these actions to pertinent current technology.
Example: A major capital improvement project like the Metro tunnel.
To apply for a technical variance, contact a DPD Noise Abatement Coordinator.
