Whether or not an acoustical consultant report will be required for your project can be determined by first creating your own basic acoustical report as detailed below. The report must consist of at least three elements:
1. Proposal
DPD Noise Abatement plan review requires that applicants submit a site plan with the following information: project location, adjacent properties, street right-of-way, equipment noise data, and equipment location. Be sure to identify the zoning of the adjacent properties and show the distance from the proposed noise generating equipment to the adjacent property lines (see sample Area Noise Evaluation Map).
Mechanical contractors will benefit from visiting the American Refrigeration Institute (ARI) website and viewing the ARI Standards and Guidelines.
2. Analysis
Identify on the site plan the noise level that each major noise generator creates. For assistance, you may refer to the ARI Standards and Guidelines.
Use the noise/distance matrix tool for sound pressure and sound power to determine noise levels at the adjacent property lines.
You will be required to identify the zoning of the adjacent properties on the site plan to complete the analysis. Using the above method will not take into account the height of structure, mechanical penthouse, parapets, or any other barrier--constructed or natural--that could attenuate sound between the noise generator and the receiver located in the "direct line of sight." (See Wood Frame Noise Barrier Design for an example of a constructed barrier.)
3. Conclusion
Include the results of the analysis in your conclusion and answer the following question: "Does the noise being generated by your equipment meet or exceed the maximum permissible noise levels allowed at the adjacent property line?"
The answer to this question will result in one of the following:
a. Your proposed project meets noise ordinance standards and will be signed off by the noise reviewer.
b. Your project does not meet standards for maximum permissible noise levels and will require an acoustical consultant report. The acoustical consultant report will identify a means of how the proposal can meet the standards in the noise ordinance.
c. The noise abatement plan reviewer will offer some assistance on how your project can meet maximum permissible noise levels by alternative means.
