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Sacramento, "California State Senate Oks Funds For Flight Path" (May 27, 1999). The Los Angeles times reports that the state Senate voted to add $400,000 to the state budget for insulating 50 homes that lie under the flight path of Burbank Airport.

Sacramento, "Limited Regulation of Leaf Blowers Back in New Jersey State Legislature, Gardeners Happy (Jun. 1 1999). Bc Cycle reports that an impending bill in the California legislature, if passed, would limit cities and counties in their regulation of noisy leaf blowers. Gardeners are backing the legislation for the second time, claiming that bans and regulations on the noisy gardening tools threaten the use of the tool they say is essential in 19 New Jersey cities." (Jun. 1, 1999). SACRAMENTO - Bc Cycle reports that cities and counties would be limited in their regulation of noisy leaf blowers by an impending bill in the state Legislature.

Sacramento, "Local Regulation of Leaf Blowers in New Jersey State Legislature Again" (Jun. 1, 1999). The Associated Press reports that an impending bill in the California legislature, if passed, would limit cities and counties in their regulation of noisy leaf blowers. Gardeners are backing the legislation for the second time, claiming that bans and regulations on the noisy gardening tool will significantly curtail its use in 19 New Jersey cities.

Salt Lake City, "Congress and Air Tour Industry Criticize NPS Noise Proposal for Grand Canyon" (May 31, 1999). Politicians and air tourism officials testified at a recent House subcommittee against a National Park Service Proposal (NPS) banning sections of the Grand Canyon as off limits to commercial tours according to the Weekly of Business Aviation. Both groups challenge the motives and methods of park service officials, claiming extremism has taken over.

San Francisco, "Barking Dogs Are a Health Hazard in California" (Mar. 26, 2000). A guest editorial in the San Francisco Times about barking dogs, health and personal responsibility is a compelling argument for anyone wishing to lodge a noise complaint and important information for anyone writing local noise ordinances.

SC, Isle of Palms, "Isle of Palms, SC Restaurant Wins Court Battle over "Overbroad" Noise Ordinance" (Jun. 17, 1999). The Post and Courier reports a federal judge ruled that the Isle of Palms noise ordinance is too vague and broad to be legally enforcable.

Scotland, "Noise Awareness Day in Scotland Gets Support from Government" (Jul. 23, 1997). The Scotsman reports that today is Scotland's Noise Awareness Day, and the government is calling for people to be more considerate of their neighbors to help control noise, the least recognized form of environmental pollution.

Scotland, "Study in Scotland Finds Only a Small Percentage of Localities Likely to Adopt New Strict Noise Standards" (Jul. 22, 1997). The Herald reports that a survey by the National Society for Clean Air in Scotland has found that only about 8% of local authorities are likely to adopt new curbs on noise between 11 pm and 7 am which come into force this week, enabling environmental health officers to seize noisy stereos, radios, and TVs. The survey was released yesterday to coincide with National Noise Awareness Day tomorrow, the article says.

Scotland, "U.K. Study Highlights Earlier Hearing Problems, Spurs Safer Sound Campaign in Scotland" (Aug. 3, 1999). The Scotsman reports that a Royal National Institute for Deaf People (RNID) study has found that 80% of young people don't worry about their hearing, although half of them have trouble listening to loud music. RNID has started a Safer Sound campaign to encourage people to protect their hearing; the campaign is encouraged by a Norway study which found a 50% reduction in hearing problems after a seven-year public-awareness campaign.

Scotland, "Scottish Paper Notes Health Dangers of Noise" (Nov. 20, 1999). The Scotsman prints an article relating to the health risks of noise exposure. While it talks about stress, high blood pressure, and other problems noted in many articles, it does talk about a few local statistics and specific disorders worth mentioning here.

Scotland, "Health Report from Scotland Notes 80 Percent of "Youngsters" Already Show First Signs of Hearing Loss" (Nov. 29, 1999). The Daily Mail reports that a new study, released from the Institute of Hearing Research in Scotland, has noted that the popularity of the personal stereo has increased the number of youths who will have hearing problems early. The researchers are advocating for decibel limits for personal stereos and clubs in Britain.

Scotland, "UK Soundscape Community, the Intellectual Wing of the Anti-Noise National Society for Clean Air, Aims to Expose Muzak As Intrusive Noise" (Nov. 7, 1999). The Sunday Herald reports that the new UK Soundscape Community wants to create a society of more active listeners, saying that more active listeners will recognize Muzak and related sounds as intrusive noise.

Scotland, Aberdeen, "Scottish Resident Upset About Neighbor's Plan for a Pigeon Loft" (Jul. 27, 1998). The Aberdeen Evening Express reports that a resident in the Aberdeen, Scotland area has applied for permission to build a loft for racing pigeons in the shared back yard of his council apartment. However, the article says, the next-door neighbor is opposing the plan, saying the pigeons will create noise and make a mess. Planning officers at the Aberdeen City Council have recommended that councilors approve the plan, and the issue will be discussed at Thursday's planning committee meeting.

Scotland, Aberdeen, "Scottish Planning Committee Delays Ruling on Noise Problems at Quarry" (Jul. 11, 1998). The Aberdeen Press and Journal reports the Highland Council's Ross and Cromarty area planning committee, near Aberdeen, Scotland, has delayed a ruling on noise problems by the quarry operator Leiths, on its Tor Achilty quarry near Contin, until September. The committee is set to consider a breach of the quarry's planning conditions related to noise levels. Committee members delayed their ruling in order to allow the quarry to finish work which is intended to minimize the noise.

Scotland, Aberdeen, "City in Scotland Publishes Guide for Residents with Noise Problems" (Jul. 1, 1998). The Aberdeen Press and Journal reports the City Council of Aberdeen, Scotland, is addressing the growing noise pollution problem by publishing noise reduction guidelines for residents.

Scotland, Aberdeen, "Aberdeen Say New Takeout Business Will Increase Noise, Litter, and Traffic" (May 7, 1998). The Aberdeen Evening Express reports local residents are irate over food takeaway plans, which they claim will make their lives miserable by adding to existing noise and traffic problems.

Scotland, Aberdeen, "New Aberdeen Industrial Park in Suburb Looks for Quiet Businesses" (May 8, 1998). The Aberdeen Evening Express reports noise is absent from Aberdeen's latest industrial park that is located in the middle of a suburb.

Scotland, Aberdeen, "Residents Object to New Nightclub in Scotland, But City Recommends Approval" (Jun. 6, 1998). The Aberdeen Press and Journal reports residents in Aberdeen, Scotland are protesting a bid to convert the Q Brasserie on Alford Place from a restaurant into a nightclub. Residents say there already are many nightclubs in the area, and another one would only increase the levels of late-night noise and disturbances. But, the article says, Peter Cockhead, the city's planning and strategic development director, has recommended that the change be allowed. The planning (development control) committee will consider the application next Thursday.

Scotland, Aberdeen, "Health Officers Promise to Investigate Complaints Regarding Low Frequency Noise" (Oct. 5, 1998). The Aberdeen Evening Express says that environmental health officers will monitor low frequency noise levels emanating from an Abderdeen dairy. According to the article their new "state of the art" equipment can filter noise frequencies.

Scotland, Aberdeen, "Scotland City Gets a Noise Complaint a Day" (Jul. 7, 1999). The Aberdeen Evening News reports that the Aberdeen City Council launched the third National Noise Action Awareness Day to educate residents about noise and its impact on others.

Scotland, Aberdeen, "Proposed Dog Kennel Causes Concern by Neighbors in Aberdeenshire, Scotland" (Mar. 15, 2000). The Aberdeen, Scotland Press and Journal reports that plans for a dog boarding kennel at New Pitsgligo have met with resistance from neighbors who are worried about increased traffic and noise.

Scotland, Aberdeen, "Stonehaven, Scotland Restaurant Owner Requests Permission to Build Apartments Above Restaurant" (Mar. 17, 2000). The Aberdeen Press and Journal in Scotland reports that a restaurant owner has asked the Stonehaven council to approve his request to add apartments upstairs from his restaurant. The council has been hesitant to grant approval because of noise concerns. The restaurant owner says, however, that only he and his family will be occupying the apartments and will be unaffected by the noise from their own restaurant or surrounding areas.

Scotland, Aberdeenshire, "Scottish Council Turns Down Application for Off-Road Driving Center" (May 29, 1998). The Aberdeen Press and Journal reports that the council in Aberdeenshire, Scotland voted 5-3 to reject an application for planning permission for an off-road driving center in Deeside. The article says that the company Making Treks was asked earlier by the council to undertake an independent noise-pollution survey related to the proposed project. Company officials say they commissioned the survey, which concluded that there would be no noise pollution, but councilors ignored that information or were not given the results of the survey before voting. The company intends to appeal the decision, the article says.

Scotland, Ballater, "Scottish Hotel Owner Threatens Neighbors With More Noise After They Object to Hotel's Extended Hours" (Jun. 4, 1998). The Aberdeen Press and Journal reports that a hotel owner in Ballater, Scotland threatened neighbors with loud music after the neighbors objected to plans to extend the hours of operation of the hotel. The Aberdeenshire (South) licensing board yesterday approved the hotel owner's application for extended hours for six months, on the understanding that the owner seeks advice from Aberdeenshire Council's environmental health department on noise control.

Scotland, Edinburgh, "Scottish Residents Try to Block Comedy Club Festival Near Their Homes" (Apr. 17, 1998). The Evening News reports that residents in Edinburgh, Scotland are angry about noise from a comedy club, the Gilded Balloon II Festival Fringe venue, near their homes. The residents accuse comedy club workers of bullying residents to ensure that residents don't oppose them. Now, residents are lodging complaints with the Edinburgh City Council in an attempt to block the club from holding a festival venue at Fishmarket Close from 11 am to 1 am between August 7 and 29. The comedy club has applied for a temporary theatre license to operate festival venue, and the City Council's licensing committee will discuss the issue at a meeting today.

Scotland, Edinburgh, "Domestic Noise Problems Belong to Environmental Health Department Says Citizen in Eninburgh, Scotland" (Mar. 7, 1998). The Evening News in Edinburgh, Scotland ran the following letter regarding the enforcement of noise ordinances. According to the article, legislation was recently amended to provide police the power to seize sound equipment that is causing a nuisance. The resident's letter points out that the Environmental Health Department already had existing powers under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 to enforce the law regarding persistent noise nuisance from both commercial and domestic sources. The letter reads as follows:

Scotland, Edinburgh, "Scotland's Environmental Health Department Should Enforce Noise Laws" (Mar. 7, 1998). The Evening News of Edinburgh, Scotland, printed the following letter from a resident about which agency should enforce noise laws:

Scotland, Edinburgh, "Edinburgh, Scotland Residents Oppose Summer Fair in Local Park" (Apr. 11, 2000). The Evening News in Edinburgh, Scotland reports that residents in an Edinburgh, Scotland neighborhood near a park are protesting a fair that is slated to take place there in May. In previous years, the fair, they say, has produced too much noise, litter, vandalism, and other crimes. They have asked the City Council to refuse to give the promoters a license to hold the fair this year.

Scotland, Edinburgh, "Residents in Scottish Community Protest Later Closing Time for Outdoor Summer Festival" (Apr. 10, 2000). The Evening News in Edinburgh, Scotland reports that the Midlothian Council will soon make a decision about whether or not to extend the evening hours of this year's "Hunter and Lass" summer festival. The outdoor festival takes place in Penicuik public park, and residents who live nearby oppose the later closure because of noise.

Scotland, Edinburgh, "Scottish Research Team Studies Hospital Noise" (Apr. 12, 2000). The Scottish Daily Record and Sunday Mail reports that a group of researchers from Heriot-Watt University in Edinburgh, Scotland are studying whether high noise levels in hospitals are adversely affecting patient recovery times and increasing nurses' stress levels. Part of the study will include installing special sound-absorbing ceilings to see if they make a difference.

Scotland, Edinburgh, "Edinburgh, Scotland Residents Oppose Temporary Housing for Homeless, Saying Existing Noise and Vandalism Problems Will Get Worse" (Jan. 27, 2000). The Evening News reports that residents in Edinburgh, Scotland's Fountainbridge neighborhood are opposing a plan to create temporary housing for homeless young people and people with special needs. They argue that noise and vandalism will become more of a problem than it already is.

Scotland, Fife, "UK Promises Residents in Scotland to Help Soundproof Homes Against Military Jet Noise" (Mar. 25, 2000). The Glasgow Herald reported that the British government promised to review soundproofing "arrangements" for residences around the UK's most northerly fighter base, Leuchars in Fife.

Scotland, Glasgow, "Noise Awareness Day Highlights Pervasive Noise Problems in Scotland" (Jul. 23, 1997). The Herald reports that today is Scotland's National Noise Awareness Day, with the aim of increasing understanding of noise issues and considering the effects our lifestyles, transport, and businesses have on noise pollution. The article outlines some of the ways noise pollution is on the increase, and what Scotland is doing about it.

Scotland, Glasgow, "European Commission Adopts New Measures To Reduce Noise" (Feb. 25, 1998). The Herald reports that the European Commission is currently creating new noise limits for outdoor equipment and other incentives for noise reduction in the European Union

Scotland, Glasgow, "Scottish Soldier's Claim that Army Damaged His Hearing Is Rejected" (Aug. 6, 1999). The Herald reports that a claim from a former soldier in Scotland, who says his 53% hearing loss is due to excessive noise he was subjected to in the army, has been rejected. Since his army discharge was in 1990, the judge decided he had waited too long beyond the usual three-year period.

Scotland, Glasgow, "Faulty Fire Alarm at the Hampdens in Glasgow, Scotland Woke Neighbors at 5 AM" (Jul. 27, 1999). The Daily Record reports that a faulty fire alarm at the Hampdens in Glasgow, Scotland went off at 5 AM yesterday, awakening neighbors of the stadium with the cry of "Evacuate". The stadium reopened last May after renovations that cost 60 million pounds. The new fire alarm was part of the renovations, but the intentionally sensitive triggers appear to be too sensitive, and stadium managers have promised to look into the problem.

Scotland, Glasgow, "Search for Loch Ness Monster Means No Royal Airforce Training" (Mar. 24, 2000). According to the Herald, a scientist studying Loch Ness in search of the lake's famous monster, Nessie, complained that jet noise was adversely affecting sensors beneath the water's surface and pilots were requested to avoid the lake while "the hunt is on."

Scotland, Kilmarnock, "TV of Scottish Man Confiscated Over Noise" (May 28, 1997). The Herald reports that Michael McGinn of Kilmarnock, Scotland has had his television and radio confiscated because he played them too loudly. McGinn also has been fined 450 pounds by the Kilmarnock Sheriff Court.

Scotland, Mayfield, Midlothian, "Mayfield, Scotland Senior Citizen Sleeps In Her Car to Escape Neighbors Music; Neighbor Counters that Senior's Saint Bernard Snores" (Jan. 30, 2000). The Sunday Mail reports that an elderly woman in Mayfield, Midlothian, Scotland has taken to sleeping in her car because of music that comes through her walls from her neighbors. Her neighbor says the music is not too loud, and counters that he loses sleep from her snoring, which she blames on her dog.

Scotland, Perthshire, "Soundproofing Company Opens New Research Facility in Scotland" (Sep. 9, 1999). The Scotsman reports that "one of the most advance facilities of its kind in Europe to improve and develop acoustic products for the construction industry opened this month" in Perthshire, Scotland. The company will market floor and wall-insulation products that will help developers market their buildings and help homeowners cope with noise.

Scotland, Port Glasgow, "Outdoor Festival in Port Glasgow, Scotland Cancelled Because of Noise Concerns" (Apr. 5, 2000). The Herald in Glasgow, Scotland reports that a summer festival that was to be held in Port Glasgow this summer will probably not take place. The organizers will likely not proceed with the event because they have been told that residents in Dunbartonshire will be bombarded with high levels of noise from the festival.

Scotland, Skye Island, "Outdoor Enthusiast Champions Victory for Failed Helicopter Tour Scheme on a British Isle" (Jun. 28, 1997). The Daily Telegraph printed an editorial in which the writer celebrates the victory over a proposal to run sightseeing flights over Skye, an island in the Hebrides off Scotland's northwest coast. The writer says the noise from the tour flights would have destroyed "one of the last wild sanctuaries of silence" in Britain.

Scotland, Tain, "New RAF Flight Paths No Improvement for some in Scottish Villages" (Jun. 25, 1998). The Aberdeen Press and Journal of Aberdeen, Scotland, reports new flight paths designed by the RAF to reduce noise for villages around the Tain bombing range in Easter Ross are making life noisy and miserable for one farmer.

Shepard, "Local Residents in UK Divided Over Train Whistle" (Jan. 12, 2000). According to the Calgary Herald, about 20 residents signed a petition against whistles from trains owned by the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR).

Singapore, "Singaporeans Modify Motorcycles to Sound More Powerful, But Pass Annual Noise Inspections" (Apr. 21, 1997). The Singapore Straits Times reports that motorcycles that have been modified to make more noise are an increasing problem in Singapore. Last year, 418 motorcyclists were booked for modifying their exhaust systems illegally, the article reports. Motorcycle shops commonly make the modifications for the bikers. Meanwhile, motorcycle owners modify their bikes back to their original, quieter condition each year when the bikes must pass inspection.

Singapore, "Noise Levels at Construction Sites Tested in Singapore" (Oct. 19, 1997). The Singapore Straits Times reports that newspaper reporters visited construction sites in Singapore to test noise levels, and found a variety of noise levels, but found no workers wearing ear protection.

Singapore, "Singapore Education Officials Notes Schools Are Being Designed to Place Classrooms in Quieter Sections of Buildings" (Jan. 1, 2000). The Straits Times prints a letter to the editor in which the writer notes that new schools in Singapore are being built with the intention of keeping classrooms in quiet sections of the building.

Singapore, "Noise Levels in Libraries" (Dec. 10, 1999). The Straits Times printed a response from the National Library Board (NLB) of Singapore to complaints about noise the city's libraries. The article says that telephones, pagers, noisy visitors and talkative readers all contribute to the noise level.

Singapore, "Motorcycle Noise Major Problem" (Jun. 16, 1999). The Straits Times (Singapore) printed a letter to the editor protesting motorcycle noise.

Singapore, "Singapore Resident Challenges Environment Ministry to Deal With Noise from Construction Sites" (Jun. 7, 1999). The Straits Times prints a letter to the editor from a Singapore resident who is tired of having family life disrupted by construction noise. She says many of her friends are in similar situations, and asks why the government -- who claims to be trying to attract tourism and foreign talent -- isn't cracking down on noise of over 70 dBs as late as 10:30 PM.

Singapore, "Trade Unions in Singapore Consolidate, Find Model in Cooperative Reduction of Occupational Noise Hazards" (Nov. 18, 1999). The Straits Times reports that the consolidation of 17 trade unions in the engineering and finance industries in Singapore has resulted in two, stronger union groups. Proponents of the consolidation point to reductions in occupational noise hazards through the strength of the new groups.

Singapore, "Singapore Enforces Noise Rules in Neighborhoods" (Jan. 15, 2000). The Straits Times (Singapore) printed a response from Mike Chan, the head of the Housing Maintenance Section Housing Administration regarding a complaint about housing renovations.

Singapore, "Machine Control Noise Levels in Singapore Hospital" (Mar. 22, 2000). According to the Straits Times of Singapore, Tan Tock Seng Hospital has installed a machine that warns to be quieter when a certain decibel is reached.

South Carolina area, Charleston, "South Carolina Judge Rules He Doesn't Have Jurisdiction Over New Noise Issues Raised by Group Opposing Speedway" (Jun. 3, 1998). The Post and Courier reports that an administrative judge in South Carolina Tuesday ruled that he doesn't have jurisdiction to address issues raised by a group opposing the construction of a racetrack near Francis Beidler Forest outside Charleston, South Carolina. The group wanted to air their concerns about racetrack noise before the judge, especially in light of recent news that the forest might be eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. But the judge ruled that he can't consider the issues unless the South Carolina Board of Health and Environmental Control returns the case to him for a new hearing. That board is expected to consider the matter this summer.

South Carolina, Aiken, "S.C. Residents Object to Noise from Aviation Club" (Apr. 8, 1998). The Augusta reports members of The Southern Model Aviation Club and nearby residents who don't like the noise coming from their airport reached no compromise at Tuesday's Aiken County Council meeting.

South Carolina, Aiken, "Airport Disturbs Rural Community In South Carolina" (Feb. 16, 1998). The Augusta Chronicle reports that residents of Aiken, South Carolina object to noise from recent air field.

South Carolina, Beaufort, "Street Preacher Says Beaufort, South Carolina Noise Law that Sets Different Decibel Limits for Amplified and Unamplified Noise is Discriminatory to Street Preachers" (Jan. 27, 2000). The Post and Courier reports that a Beaufort, South Carolina preacher has threatened to sue the city for setting decibel limits for unamplified noise lower than those for amplified noise: a rule that discriminates against street preaching.

South Carolina, Berkeley County, "South Carolina State Officials Say Proposed Racetrack Won't Hurt Forest" (Nov. 13, 1997). The Post and Courier reports that the South Carolina Department of Archives and History has decided that the predicted noise level of a proposed racetrack in Berkeley County will not prevent Francis Beidler Forest from being placed on the National Register of Historic Places. The state agency's decision eliminates a possible roadblock for the proposed Interstate Speedway. Opponents, who are worried about the racetrack's effect on the wildlife sanctuary two miles away, had hoped the noise level issue would halt the project, the article notes.

South Carolina, Charleston, "South Carolina State Officials Rule that Proposed Racetrack Near Old-Growth Forest Can Go Forward" (Nov. 20, 1997). The Herald reports that the South Carolina state Office of Ocean and Coastal Resource Management issued a decision Tuesday that plans for a racetrack near the old-growth Francis Beidler Forest comply with the state's Coastal Zone Management Act. The agency had ruled earlier that the project complied with the state rules, but reviewed its decision after the state Department of Archives and History raised concerns that noise from the track could affect the forest. Meanwhile, opponents led by the National Audubon Society have challenged several permits for the proposed track near Four Holes Swamp, just two miles from the forest.

South Carolina, Charleston, "South Carolina Activist Works to Clean Up Pollution, Appointed to National Advisory Board" (Oct. 30, 1997). The Post and Courier of Charleston, South Carolina, reports that resident turned activist Delbert DuBois has taken action on several environmental problems, including noise and industry contamination, in his Four Mile Hibernian neighborhood. And now DuBois will get the chance to influence environmental decisions nationwide. Starting in November, DuBois will serve as an adviser on the National Environmental Justice Advisory Council, a branch of the EPA.

South Carolina, Charleston, "Noise Ordinance Going Too Far in Charleston?" (May 2, 1998). The Charleston Daily Mail published an editorial questioning the proposal for Charleston police to use decibel meters to enforce noise ordinances.

South Carolina, Charleston, "Second Phase of Repairs Shifts Noise at Charleston Air Force Base" (Mar. 18, 1998). The Post and Courier reports moving a repair project at Charleston Air Force Base from one runway to the other means a reduction in noise for some residents while a return of noise for others.

South Carolina, Charleston, "City of Charleston Considers Updating Noise Ordinance" (May 6, 1998). The Charleston Daily Mail reports city council committees are meeting this week to discuss recycling issues and strengthening the Charleston's noise laws.

South Carolina, Charleston, "South Carolina County Considers Noisy Animal Ordinance" (Apr. 16, 1999). The Post and Courier reports the Charleston, South Carolina, County Council, is working to create a fair and enforceable noise ordinance that will give relief to neighbors annoyed by animal noise.

South Carolina, Charleston, "Charleston, South Carolina Council To Decide Whether Barking Dogs Will Face The Long Arm of the Law" (Apr. 22, 1999). The Charleston Post and Courier reports that one woman is up in arms over the barking dogs that are preventing her and her children from getting sleep. She is in full support of a proposed law that would fine dog owners who do not silence their animals.

South Carolina, Charleston, "Charleston, South Carolina Baseball Stadium Management Asks City to Reduce Cut on Food Sales at Loud Concerts, City Council Delays Answer" (Apr. 28, 1999). The Post and Courier reports that when the Charleston, South Carolina City Council was asked by the Charleston Riverdogs -- management for Joseph P. Riley Jr. baseball stadium to reduce its cut of food sales at rock concerts, the city did not answer immediately. The management wants to hold 6-8 concerts this year in the park, where a concert last year drew noise complaints from neighbors. The Council is also concerned about reports that a black promoter experienced difficulty in leasing the facility.

South Carolina, Charleston, "Charleston, South Carolina Residents Want Stricter Enforcement of Laws Designed to Provide Peace and Privacy from Tourists" (Nov. 16, 1999). The Post and Courier reports that residents of Charleston, South Carolina have a list of ways that the city could make existing tourism laws more effective. A broad, day-long forum on tourism laws is planned for next week. Major issues include stopping tours after 6 p.m., reducing noise, and regulating large busses.

South Carolina, Charleston, "Neighbors' Complaints About Noisy South Carolina Port Prompts Investigation" (Feb. 20, 2000). According to the Associated Press, the Charleston County sheriff's department is investigating a State Ports Authority storage/container yard because of neighbors' complaints about excessive noise. If the Ports Authority is found to be in violation of the county's noise ordinance, it could be forced to stop using the yard or modify its operations.

South Carolina, Charleston, "South Carolina County Officials Investigate States Ports Authority" (Feb. 20, 2000). According to the Associated Press, Charleston County officials have asked the sheriff's department to investigate a State Ports Authority storage yard because of noise and safety concerns from residents.

South Carolina, Charleston, "South Carolinians Organize Opposition to Port Authority's Plan for Container Port" (Feb. 3, 2000). The Post and Courier reported that residents on Daniel Island will publicly oppose the State Ports Authority's (SPA) plan to establish a large container port on state land near the island. They've even formed their own organization, the Daniel Island Neighborhood Association.

South Carolina, Charleston, "Charleston, South Carolina Storage Container Yard in Possible Violation of City Noise Ordinance and County Zoning Regulations" (Mar. 18, 2000). The Charleston, South Carolina Post and Courier reports that a container storage yard in East Cooper generates noise that bothers area residents and may have violated the city noise ordinance. Additionally, the State Ports Authority violated Charleston County law by not receiving appropriate zoning permits before building the yard.

South Carolina, Charleston, "Reader Asks the "Car Talk Guys" About Noisy Minivan; It's Probably the Differential" (Mar. 13, 2000). The Charleston Daily Mail published a column by auto experts Tom and Ray Magliozzi. A reader wrote in with a question about a 1995 Ford Aerostar that began making a whining noise starting at about 75,000 miles.

South Carolina, Charleston County, "Proposed Ordinance to Ticket Owners of Barking Dogs Voted Down in Charleston County, South Carolina" (May 5, 1999). The Post and Courier reports that a proposed ordinance in Charleston County, South Carolina that would have allowed police to charge dog owners whose pets bark continually was voted down 6-2. Persons convicted under the ordinance would have received a $500 fine. Although they were sympathetic to residents who have complained of incessantly barking dogs, several council members were concerned that the ordinance was unreasonable for rural residents who "expect to have animals around them" as part of their lifestyle; they maintained that an existing nuisance ordinance would allow problem-dog owners to be prosecuted.

South Carolina, Charlestown, "National Audubon Society Fights South Carolina Racetrack Proposal" (Feb. 19, 1998). The Post and Courier reports that residents of Charlestown, South Carolina are engaged in a lawsuit over whether to build a racetrack near the Francis Beidler Forest.

South Carolina, Chartleston, "Charleston City Council to Write More Enforceable Noise Ordinance" (May 8, 1998). The Charleston Daily Mail reports Charleston's City Council's public safety committee will look into adopting a noise ordinance that is more objective and therefore, more enforceable than their current ordinance.

South Carolina, Columbia, "Peace Group Protests Military Raid Rehearsals in Columbia, South Carolina, Citing Noise Complaints" (Nov. 12, 1999). The Atlanta Journal and Constitution reports that a peace organization in Columbia, South Carolina are saying that practice military operations in downtown areas creates too much noise. he operations are designed to train Marines in urban warfare situations such as those that could arise in places like Kosovo.

South Carolina, Columbia, "Columnist in Columbia, South Carolina Discusses Noise Strategies in Our National Parks" (Oct. 16, 1999). The Sacramento Bee prints a column that discusses noise pollution in our national parks. The column discusses air-tour noise, raft-motor noise, and other problems in our national parks. She mentions that the National Park Service is currently drafting a policy that will require all parks to monitor their noise and establish natural sound levels as well as sources of the most intrusive human-made sounds.

South Carolina, Emma, "South Carolina Judge Denies Residents' Challenge To Neighborhood Firing Range" (Jun. 1, 1999). The Asheville Citizen-Times of South Carolina reports that a Buncombe County Superior Court judge has denied some Emma landowners a preliminary injunction against the owners of a Shelby Road firing range near their property, which is located in a residential area. A trial date has yet to be determined.

South Carolina, Fort Mill, "Fort Mill, South Carolina Resident Complains About Noise from Wastewater Treatment Plant" (Aug. 16, 1999). The Herald reports that in Fort Mill, South Carolina a resident whose property line is 20 feet from a noise wastewater treatment plant is angry about the noise. The man offered U.S. Utilities Company $4000 to quiet the noise, but the company wasn't comfortable taking his money. Some work has been done to quiet the noise, but the resident says it's not enough.

South Carolina, Hanahan, "South Carolina Land-Use Plan Designed To Prevent Noise Pollution" (May 15, 1997). The Post and Courier reports the Hanahan (South Carolina) City Council adopted a land-use plan that would permit only 120 acres of the 746-acre Brown Tract to be used for businesses, with the rest used for single-family homes. City Administrator Dan Davis states the 120 acres will be rezoned by the city planning commission for "limited industry," meaning businesses that are environmentally friendly and compatible with residential areas. The commission's aim is to prevent noise and traffic pollution. A land architect had originally proposed 238 acres be used for industry.

South Carolina, Mt. Pleasant, "South Carolina Residents Record Jet Noise and Play for State Legislators" (Mar. 24, 2000). The Post and Courier reported that the State Ports Authority (SPA) plans to hire a noise expert to investigate ways to reduce noise during the expansion of the Wando Welch Terminal.

South Carolina, Mt. Pleasant, "South Carolina's State Port Authority Noise Underestimated and Residents are Angry" (Mar. 21, 2000). According to the Post and Courier, residents in a subdivision of Mt. Pleasant are angry at the State Ports Authority (SPA) over noise from the Wando Welch Terminal and the SPA's plans to expand the port.

South Carolina, Myrtle Beach, "Residents of Small Communities Near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina Want Better Buffers Between Homes and Businesses" (Jul. 30, 1999). The Sun News reports that several small communities near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina are being steadily surrounded by commercial development. Some residents don't mind, but many others are disturbed by light and noise pollution from businesses they say are too close to their homes. Residents have to deal with noise and light from fireworks, parking-lot maintenance, generators, and other disruptive sources.

South Carolina, North Charleston, "Loud Machinery Regulated by N. Charleston's Noise Ordinance" (Mar. 13, 1998). The Post and Courier reports a new North Charleston, South Carolina, noise ordinance passed without comment from the public Thursday night.

South Carolina, Pringletown, "Opponents of Proposed South Carolina Racetrack Appeal State Decision that Noise Won't Damage Surrounding Countryside" (Nov. 27, 1997). The Post and Courier reports that opponents of a proposed racetrack in Pringletown, South Carolina have appealed a decision by the state Department of Health and Environmental Control that the track's noise level will not adversely affect Francis Beidler Forest. The appellant in the case has claimed that comparisons made between the proposed track and another track are invalid because the topography and existing background noise are very different.

South Carolina, Rock Hill, "South Carolina Police Gun Club Cooperates with Neighbors about Noise Complaints" (Nov. 16, 1998). The Herald reports a Rock Hill, South Carolina, police firing range has drawn several noise complaints from neighbors, but the owners promise more quiet.

South Carolina, Rock Hill, "York County, South Carolina Official Wants $4000 Noise Study to Determine If Proposed Freeze on Residential Development Near Airport is Necessary" (Nov. 13, 1999). The Herald reports that a York County, South Carolina council member wants the council to fund a $4,000 noise study to determine if a ban on future residential development near the Rock Hill airport is necessary. The council member thinks rezoning decisions should not be based on data from a 1994 study, which could be outdated. Residents of Rock Hill were opposed to the idea of industrial zones near their neighborhoods, but were somewhat satisfied when the planning commission agreed to provide green space buffers between residents and any industrial zones.

South Carolina, St. Stephen, "St. Stephen, South Carolina Begins Enforcing Its Laws to Fine Cars with Excessively Loud Stereos or Darkly-Tinted Windows" (Aug. 26, 1999). The Post and Courier reports that St. Stephen, South Carolina officials have begun more aggressive enforcement of several local laws. Now, you can be fined $348 for noise that can be heard over 50 feet away, or $360 for darkly-tinted rear windows on your car that could obstruct the view of police.

South Carolina, Summerville, "South Carolina Noise Complaint Puts Police Against Crowd" (Mar. 23, 2000). The Post and Courier reported that a police officer, in pursuit of a vehicle with a loud stereo system, attempted to arrest the driver when he stopped his car, angering a crowd of people that had gathered.

South Carolina, York, "Residents in South Carolina Town Complain About Noise from Gun Range and Water Treatment Plant" (May 6, 1997). The Herald reports that two residents of York, South Carolina brought noise problems to the County Council Monday. Charles Plyler complains about noisy gunfire at a nearby police shooting range, and Bud Rushin can't sleep because of unmuffled pumping at a water treatment plant near his home. The council agreed to investigate both complaints.

South Carolina, York County, "York County, South Carolina Tourism Councils Plan to Spend $4,000 on New Noise Study of Airport" (Nov. 16, 1999). The Herald reports that York County, South Carolina's tourism councils want to merge, and spend up to $4,000 on a new noise study for the county airport.

South China, "China's Labor Department Outlines Its Efforts to Protect Workers from Hearing Damage" (Apr. 30, 1998). The South China Morning Post published the following letter to the editor from Wong Ching Kwok for the Commissioner of Labor about efforts made by the Labor Department to protect workers from hearing damage. Wong Ching Kwok wrote:

South China, "Airport Noise Shifts from One Town in China to Another; Environmental Groups Demand Compensation for Residents" (Jul. 9, 1998). The South China Morning Post reports airport noise has shifted from Kowloon to Lantau and Sha Tin despite promises that Chek Lap Kok would solve the problem, green groups said yesterday.

South China, "Violators of Noise Pollution Laws Convicted in South China" (Oct. 21, 1998). South China Morning Post reports more than 100 companies and individuals were convicted last month of noise pollution and other forms of contaminating the environment in South China.

South Korea, Seoul, "South Korean Residents Sue Government Over Airplane Noise" (Feb. 1, 2000). The Korea Herald reported on residents who sued the government and a government-run airport operator because of airplane noise from nearby Kimpo International Airport. Residents seek compensation for "physical and mental damage" because of airport noise.

South Wales, "Caged Dogs in UK Back Yard Cause for Concern Among Neighbors" (Jul. 8, 1999). According to the South Wales Evening Post, residents in one community in South Wales is taking on its own town council because of one neighbor's hobby-- raising dogs, which are kept caged in his back yard.

South Wales, Swansea, "Neighbors of a Metal Fabrications Plant in Swansea, South Wales Are Upset By Noise" (Sep. 6, 1999). The South Wales Evening Post reports that residents living near Magnaforce Metal Fabrications Plant in Swansea, South Wales are upset by the plant's noise. Residents have noticed no reduction in noise after they talked with the business and had officials monitor plant noise. The plant manager claims that they have recently purchased a quieter machine and have reduced noisy work in the mornings an on Sundays.

South Wales, Swansea, "Town in South Wales Implements Faster Noise Complaint Policy" (Mar. 23, 2000). The South Wales Evening Post reported on plans by the Swansea Council to find a newer and faster noise complaint policy.

Spain, Madrid, "Madrid, Spain -- Officially Europe's Loudest City -- Torn Between Late-Night Summer Revelers and Those Who Want Sleep" (Aug. 29, 1999). Scotland on Sunday reports that officials in Madrid, Spain are torn between those who enjoy late-night revelry and those who want sleep. In a particularly loud district, officials have passed a law that requires bars to close by 2 a.m., but bar owners say they should be allowed to stay open late since their real business only begins at midnight. 80% of those living in Madrid are exposed to noise levels above the 65 decibel average that is acceptable according to the World Health Organization. A a noise law that was promised in 1993 is still undrafted.

Spain, Madrid, "Mobile Telephone Use in Spain Prompts Demand for Legislation to Curb Their Use" (Apr. 15, 2000). According to The Guardian, the noise levels from mobile telephones is such a nuisance that people are demanding legislative action. The growth rate of mobile telephone use is higher in Spain than anywhere else in Europe, according to the article--from one million to 18 million in just five years.

Spain, Madrid, "Madrid Airport Too Noisy and Dangerous Say Protesters" (Feb. 21, 2000). The International Herald Tribune reported that 40 adults and three children arrived at Madrid Barajas at 10 pm in their pajamas and robes to protest airport noise.

Suffolk County New York, "New York Police Impound ATVs In Response To Noise Complaints" (Dec. 22, 1997). Newsday reports that reacting to noise complaints from residents and civic groups, police in Suffolk County New York took to the woods of Shoreham Saturday and impounded 10 all-terrain vehicles.

Sweden, Billesholm, "Benefits of Uniform Attenuation Hearing Protection in the Workplace" (Mar. 1, 2000). Occupational Health and Safety reports on the technical and scientific aspects of workplace noise and how it affects human hearing and communication.

Switzerland, Geneva, "Quantum Hard Drive Manufacturer Introduces Quiet Drive Technology, Substantially Reducing Noise" (Dec. 8, 1999). M2 Presswire reports that Quantum, a computer company, is now shipping the world's quietest hard drive as measured by an independent consultant.


Other Indexes

Aircraft Noise
Amplified Noise
Effects on Wildlife/Animals
Construction Noise
Firing Ranges
Health Effects
Home Equipment and Appliances
Industrial/Manufacturing
International News
Environmental Justice
Land Use and Noise
Lawsuits
Civil Liberty Issues
Miscellaneous Noise Stories
Noise Ordinances
Noise Organizations Mentioned
Outdoor Events
Noise in Our National Parks/Natural Areas
Regulation
Residential and Community Noise
Snowmobile and ATV Noise
Research and Studies
Technological Solutions to Noise
Transportation Related Noise
Violence and Noise
Watercraft Noise
Workplace Noise

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