NoiseFreeTexas.org
Petition
To Our Elected Officials,
Re: Texas Penal Code
Title 9. Offenses Against Public
Order and Decency
Chapter 42. Disorderly Conduct and
Related Offenses, Sec. 42.01 Disorderly Conduct
(2) a noise is presumed to be
unreasonable if the noise exceeds a decibel level of 85 after the person making
the noise receives notice from a magistrate or peace officer that the noise is
a public nuisance.
As citizens of the State of Texas,
and constituents of your county and district, we respectfully request that the
current noise statute of the Texas Penal Code be changed to reflect a healthy
and acceptable noise level of 60 - 65 decibels (dbl), 7pm to 7am (sundown to
sunup), in lieu of the current and unacceptable 85 decibels (dbl). We request that state and national holidays, ISD events, professional sporting events, and the discharge of firearms, etc., be exempt.
The current 85 dbl. isn't
neighborly and discourages a healthy rural lifestyle. A decibel reading
of 60 – 65 decibels will ensure that a 45 dbl. reading will be in our homes.
45 dbl. is the noise level of normal indoor conversation.
We also request the new statute to
specify that the decibel reading, upon investigation, be taken at the property
line of the noise source to ensure a decibel of reading not over 65 decibels.
Please specify noise meter readings are to be taken at the noise source.
It's also important for the noise level to be measured using the C-weighted
decibel meter, which measures low frequency bass vibrations.
To live close to a business that
generates a constant 85 dbl., till all hours of the early morning, is
unbearable. The low frequency bass sounds and vibrations travel several miles
from the noise source, and have the capability of entering our homes through
windows and up foundations. Disruptive noise prevents normal interior
conversation, prevents and disrupts sleep, and negates a healthy
lifestyle. Most distressing is that disruptive noise prevents the
peaceful enjoyment of our homes and property.
According to Science World,
(3/25/02), 85 dbl. begets hearing loss. 85 dbl. is the registered noise
level for a subway, a lawnmower, or jets flying overhead. Disruptive noise has
been scientifically researched and documented. Excessive exposure to disruptive
noise is used as a successful military tactic. Living near or working under 85 dbl is
unreasonable and an intolerable stressor upon neighbors and employees.
Please change the Texas Penal Code
statute to reflect a maximum of 60 - 65 dbl., 7pm to 7am (sundown to sunup).
This change will better protect all Texans from unreasonable noise inside our
homes, and ensure a healthy rural environment for all.
All Texans should be afforded the
right to a good night's sleep. We rural Texans want to live in peace and
quiet. Please help us.
GOOD
TEXANS KEEP THEIR NOISE TO THEMSELVES
LET’S KEEP THE PEACE IN RURAL TEXAS