Long Beach City Council
June 6, 2023

Development Services Department
411 West Ocean Boulevard, 3rd Floor Long Beach, CA 90802 562.570.5237
June 6, 2023

HONORABLE MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL
City of Long Beach
California
RECOMMENDATION:

Recommendation to receive supporting documentation into the record and conclude the public hearing;
Adopt a Resolution approving and certifying the Environmental Impact Report EIR 03- 20, State Clearinghouse No. 2019050009 and associated findings; Adopt a Resolution replacing the current Noise Element with the updated Noise Element of the Long Beach General Plan; and,
Adopt an Ordinance implementing associated amendments to the Noise Ordinance, Long Beach Municipal Code Chapter 8.80. (Citywide)

DISCUSSION
Overview and Background
On March 2, 2023, the Planning Commission (Commission) held a duly noticed public hearing on the Noise Element and Noise Ordinance Update. The Commission unanimously voted to recommend the Noise Element and Noise Ordinance Update to the City Council for approval.

However, the Commission took action to modify City of Long Beach (City) staff’s recommendation by splitting the motion into two separate parts. The reason for the split vote was because the Commission felt that separate consideration of the Noise Ordinance Update was warranted based on public feedback regarding the desire for it to further address noise generated from special events. After much discussion, and in recognition of the fact that special events noise is regulated through a different title of the Long Beach Municipal Code (LBMC) than that which was before the Commission, the Commission ultimately voted to recommend both the updated Noise Element and the Ordinance amendments to implement the updated Noise Element to the City Council.

The City has been working to update the Noise Element of the General Plan since 2017. The Noise Element is one of the nine state-mandated General Plan Elements required for every city in California. In 1971, the California legislature mandated that a Noise Element be included as part of the General Plan due to potential impacts associated with elevated noise and vibration and the effects on community members within its cities. An update to the City’s original 1975 Noise Element is proposed as well as the corresponding LBMC amendment to the City’s Noise Ordinance to bring it into conformance with the updated Noise Element and the 2019 General Plan Land Use Element (LUE) and improve the enforceability of the Ordinance.

H-22

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June 6, 2023

The Long Beach General Plan Noise Element was first adopted in 1975, and the Noise Ordinance was last comprehensively updated in 1977 based on the Noise Element. Since then, the City’s physical makeup, population and regional context and the regulatory guidance around noise have changed significantly. Long Beach has grown and evolved a great deal since the 1970s. The City has a substantially larger population and has seen a significant increase in throughput from the Port of Long Beach and along goods movement corridors. The City’s downtown has evolved as a convention and tourist destination, and the transportation network has had significant expansion with the development of the Metro A-line (formerly Blue Line) and investments in multimodal transportation facilities. Long Beach is now the 7th largest city in California and one of the top 50 largest cities in the United States. As Long Beach transitioned from a Los Angeles suburb to a vibrant, metropolitan community, the soundscape has also inevitably changed. Today, Long Beach is home to a thriving port, airport, major freeways, transit lines, and tourist attractions. It is appropriate to update the City’s policy framework to reflect these changes in the City’s urban fabric and its soundscape, while identifying new strategies and policies to maintain healthy, livable neighborhoods for all residents.

The proposed Noise Element update will replace the existing 1975 document and provide a tailored approach to noise policies and land use, recognizing the unique characteristics of the City’s mixed-use, urban environment and major transportation corridors. Following a robust community engagement process from 2017-2019, a draft plan was released for public review in 2019. An Environmental Impact Report (EIR) was circulated for public review in early 2021.

On October 21, 2021, City staff presented the Noise Element Update to the Commission for consideration of a recommendation for adoption. At this meeting, the Commission motioned to continue the item and directed City staff to return with a study session on the proposed plan.

Additional research, cross-departmental coordination and plan refinement took place in 2022, and a revised plan was made available for public comment from October 14, 2022, through December 1, 2022. The latest public review draft reflects edits to the plan and Ordinance including enhancements to LBMC section 8.80.030 regarding Administration and Enforcement of the Noise Ordinance. Two study sessions took place with the Planning Commission during the public review period for the revised draft plan, on October 20, 2022, and December 1, 2022.

The study sessions featured a presentation of the draft Noise Element Update, Noise Ordinance Amendments and additional information related to noise generated by special events. The study sessions provided further opportunities for the public to provide public input on the Noise Element Update. No formal action was taken by the Commission at these study session meetings.

Noise Element Plan Overview
The proposed Noise Element Update aims to replace the existing 1975 Noise Element (Attachment A) of the Long Beach General Plan, respectively. The purpose of the Noise Element Update (Attachment B) is to provide a tailored approach to noise policy across neighborhoods, recognizing the unique characteristics of urban mixed-use environments and major transportation infrastructure. The Noise Element establishes updated strategies and policies that will guide noise and land use throughout the City. Four general goals of the Noise Element include:

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June 6, 2023

• A healthy, livable community;
• Equitable distribution of noise;
• Minimizing exposures to excessive noise; and,
• Allowing for elements necessary for a dynamic, growing City.

The Development Services Department’s (Department) Planning Bureau (Bureau) has prepared the General Plan Noise Element update and associated amendments to the Noise Ordinance (Attachment C) to implement the Noise Element. As part of the Noise Element update, 16 strategies related to noise are proposed, which would aid in the review of future development projects and their associated impacts. The 16 strategies are supported by numerous policies that work together to achieve the goals of creating a healthy, livable community that aims generally to minimize exposure to excessive noise while allowing for the elements and activity that are necessary for a dynamic, growing city and ensuring the equitable distribution of noise.

The Noise Element consists of six chapters: 1) Vision: A City That Thrives; 2) Introduction:

What is a Noise Element? 3) Context: Understanding the Noise Environment; 4) Noise Fundamentals: Characteristics of Sound; 5) Noise Plan: Creating Livable Environments; and, 6) Administration and Implementation: Maintaining the Noise Element. As State law mandates that the Noise Element, be consistent with all other General Plan Elements, the proposed project brings the Noise Element and Noise Ordinance into consistency with the 2019 LUE update. The Draft Noise Element plan and associated proposed amendments to Title 8 of the LBMC (Noise Ordinance) have been available since 2019, with revised drafts released in March 2021 and October 2022. The March 2021 draft underwent a public review period when the draft EIR was in its public comment period from March 23, 2021, to June 14, 2021. The most recent version, the October 2022 draft, was made available for public comment from October 14, 2022, through December 1, 2022. The latest public review draft reflects edits to the plan and Noise Ordinance including enhancements to LBMC Section 8.80.030 regarding Administration and Enforcement of the Noise Ordinance.

Public Outreach and Engagement
To inform the proposed Noise Element and identify potential issues, a variety of community engagement strategies were employed from 2017-2019. Early in the process, a digital mapping tool was used to crowdsource data from residents and the community on local noise issues and observations through their smart phone or other devices. Special events emerged as an area of significant community interest. As such, City staff held a focus group and community meetings that focused on special events. Multiple stakeholder meetings and focus groups were conducted. Input received from the numerous outreach efforts were recorded, studied, and used to inform an Existing Conditions Report (first released to the public in March 2018 - Attachment D), which has informed the proposed Noise Element. Feedback from this early outreach also helped inform development of the Special Events Noise Study described below in more detail. Major outreach and engagement activities and events for the Noise Element Update included:

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June 6, 2023

• In 2017-2018, a variety of community engagement strategies were employed including a significant online outreach component, “Listen Up Long Beach,” a crowdsourced digital mapping tool for the community to report on local noise issues and multiple stakeholder meetings and focus groups.
• On October 17, 2018, City staff held a focus group on Special Events and Outdoor Noise.
• On September 26, 2019, City staff supported the City Manager’s Office Special Events and Filming Bureau (Special Events and Filming Bureau) at their Special Events Sound Study community meeting.
• On May 30, 2019, City staff held a Noise Element Open House, just after the Draft Noise Element was released for public review on May 28, 2019. • City staff attended multiple Ocean Residents Community Association meetings throughout the multi-year process.
• Two Commission study sessions with community input were held on October 20, 2022, and December 1, 2022.

Throughout the outreach and engagement process, City staff gathered feedback about noise concerns, opportunities, and priorities from community members. The proposed Noise Element incorporated comments received from community members throughout the outreach and engagement process. A common concern was the frequency and sound levels of special events in the waterfront area and categorization of special events as a temporary rather than stationary noise source. Commenters noted that excessive noise is a hazard to public health.

Other concerns included general questions and comments about how the City can address noise sources such as freeways, ground vehicles and aircraft, leaf blowers, and nuisance neighborhood noises such as barking dogs. Other comments recognized Long Beach as a growing metropolitan City, where sound associated with entertainment and other common urban activities is an unavoidable part of the environment. While every comment did not lead to a specific change, changes were made specifically to address special events and other common topics. In addition, while not every request or comment could be fully accommodated, each was reviewed and considered by the consultant team, City staff and Departmental senior management.

General Plan Noise Element Requirements and Element Consistency The Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (OPR) General Plan Guidelines provide guidance to cities on what must be addressed in each General Plan element. The Noise Element must: identify and appraise noise problems in the community; analyze and quantify, to the extent practicable, current and projected noise levels from a number of identified stationary sources (highways and freeways; primary arterials and major local streets; passenger and freight rail and ground rapid transit; aviation, military, and other facilities related to airport operations; industrial plants; and other stationary sources identified by local agencies that contribute to the noise environment); provide noise contours that shall be used as a guide for establishing a pattern of land uses; include implementation measures and

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possible solutions that address existing and foreseeable noise problems; and serve as guidelines for compliance with the state’s noise insulation standards.

State law mandates that the Noise Element be consistent with all other General Plan Elements.

Policies and strategies in the Noise Element are intended to provide protection for land uses, as identified in the LUE, from excessive noise. The proposed Noise Element identifies potential and anticipated noise sources and establishes programs to avoid or mitigate noise impacts.

The Noise Element is related to other mandated elements, including Land Use, Housing, Circulation, and Open Space. In addition, the Noise Element is related to policies in the recently adopted Urban Design Element, a companion element to the updated LUE. The relationship between noise and these elements is briefly discussed in the section below and further detailed in the findings (Attachment E).
• Land Use – A key objective of the proposed Noise Element is to provide noise exposure information for implementation of the LUE. When integrated with the proposed Noise Element, the LUE will show acceptable new land uses in relation to existing and projected noise contours.
• Housing – Since residential land use is among the most noise sensitive, the noise exposure information provided in the proposed Noise Element must be considered when planning the location of and designing new housing.
• Mobility – The circulation system must be correlated with the LUE and is one of the major sources of noise. Thus, identifying ways to minimize noise exposure in the location and design of new transportation facilities is an important consideration, and planned land uses should incorporate project design features to minimize exposure to noise from existing transportation facilities.
• Open Space – Excessive noise can adversely affect the enjoyment of recreational pursuits in designated open space. Thus, noise exposure levels should be considered when planning for open space use. Conversely, open space can be used to buffer sensitive land uses from noise sources by using setbacks and landscaping. • Urban Design – Urban design techniques can be employed to mitigate noise impacts.

The Urban Design Element therefore complements the Noise Element. The Urban Design Element builds off the LUE PlaceTypes approach to allowing a greater mix of compatible uses within Long Beach neighborhoods in a harmonious manner supported by urban design strategies and policies.

Per Government Code Section 65300.5, all General Plan elements must be consistent with each other. As the LUE was updated in 2019, the proposed Noise Element update and proposed amendments to the Noise Ordinance to implement the updated Noise Element help ensure consistency between the Noise Element and the LUE. The Noise Element update, and noise limits, that inform implementation of the various General Plan Elements. Additionally, the Noise Element establishes new strategies and policies that help minimize noise impacts.

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The Noise Plan
This Noise Element identifies strategies and policies to implement the vision of a healthy, livable noise environment in Long Beach. The strategies and policies outlined in Chapter 5:

Noise Plan identify specific ways the City is working toward that vision. Long Beach is continuously pursuing innovative policies to lead the way in planning for noise in an evolving urban environment. Chapter 5: of the Noise Plan provides strategies and policies organized into six areas: 1) PlaceType Characteristics and Land Use Compatibility; 2) Mobility; 3) Construction; 4) Special Events; 5) Environmental Justice and Social Equity; and 6) Noise Management. There are a total of 16 strategies and 108 policies found in the plan. A summary of the strategies and example policies for each area is included below:

1. PlaceType Characteristics and Land Use Compatibility strategies and policies recognize that land use decisions must consider ambient noise levels and that measures should be applied to minimize noise impacts, to the degree practical and as appropriate for surrounding land uses. The LUE uses PlaceTypes to establish areas that have harmonious land uses, common development patterns and characteristics in order to ensure greater compatibility among land uses. A particular aim of the LUE PlaceTypes is to promote complete neighborhoods that provide for all the functional needs of residents and encourage more sustainable development patterns and generally allow greater flexibility and a mix of uses within these areas. The Noise Element PlaceType Characteristics and Land Use Compatibility strategies and policies help ensure that development of buildings, neighborhoods, streets, and outdoor spaces within any PlaceType are designed to identify and reduce or eliminate unnecessary noise near noise sensitive areas. As an example, PlaceType Characteristics and Land Use Compatibility strategy, Strategy No. 1 applies site planning and other design strategies to reduce noise impacts, especially within the Founding and Contemporary Neighborhoods (FCN), Multifamily Residential—Low and Moderate (MFR-L and MFRM, respectively), and Neighborhood Serving Centers and Corridors – Low and Moderate (NSC-L and NSC-M, respectively) PlaceTypes. For example, policies under Strategy No. 1 encourage project site planning and the location of the various functional spaces within developments to minimize the potential adverse impacts of noise (Policy N 1-6) and the use of urban design strategies such as the use courtyards, paseos, alleys, plazas and open space areas to provide a buffer to noise sensitive uses (Policy N 1-5).

2. Mobility strategies and policies recognize that transportation is a major noise source and seek to minimize noise impacts from the multitude of vehicle-related noise including automobiles, trucks, motorcycles, and buses. As an example, Mobility strategy, Strategy No. 6 minimizes vehicular traffic noise in residential areas and near noise-sensitive land uses. An example policy under this strategy, Policy N 6-5, seeks to establish and enforce designated truck routes on specified arterial streets to minimize the negative impacts to noise sensitive uses throughout the City.

3. Construction strategy and policies recognize that construction activities are necessary and on-going source of noise throughout all parts of the City and seek to minimize the impacts of construction noise and vibration levels in residential areas and in other locations near noise-sensitive uses where possible. As an example, Construction policy,

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Policy N 12-2, would limit the allowable hours for construction activities and maintenance operations near sensitive uses.

4. Special Events strategy and policies recognize the desire to continue making Long Beach a desirable setting for special events of many forms, while ensuring managed frequency and intensity of the noise for residents living in close proximity to these events.

Special Events strategies and policies aim to provide a balanced approach to managing the needs of special events while prioritizing the well-being of residents. As an example, Special Events Policy N 13-3 provides guidance for implementing and enforcing procedures related to noise level requirements for large special events through the permitting process. The enforcement procedures are to be reviewed on an annual basis.

5. Environmental Justice and Social Equity strategies and policies recognize that environmental justice and social equity, as they relate to sound, are important aspects of planning for a healthy noise environment for all residents of Long Beach. As an example, Environmental Justice and Social Equity strategy, Strategy No. 15 seeks to reduce the disproportionate environmental noise burdens affecting low-income and minority populations. An example, Environmental Justice and Social Equity policy is Policy 15-2 which requires that proposals for new sensitive land uses incorporate adequate setbacks, barriers, landscaping or other measures as necessary to minimize noise impacts, particularly in areas of the City that are disproportionately impacted by noise.

6. Noise Management strategies and policies recognize the continual effort needed to regulate noise and create buffers from sources of noise to surrounding sensitive receptors and land uses. Noise Management strategies and policies aim to continue to actively enhance the regulation and management of noise, to improve procedures and minimize noise impacts. As an example, Noise Management Policy N 16-3 calls for developing a framework for improved inter-agency coordination with agencies such as the Federal Rail Administration, Federal Highway Administration, Federal Aviation Administration, and California Department of Motor Vehicles.

The strategies and policies in the proposed Noise Element provide a comprehensive framework for minimizing noise impacts in Long Beach. The strategies and policies established by the updated Noise Element would reduce potential impacts related to incompatible land uses and would help promote a healthy noise environment in the City. Changes to the Noise Ordinance are needed to implement the Proposed Noise Element. Proposed changes to the Noise Ordinance are detailed in the following section.

Proposed Noise Ordinance Amendments
The Noise Ordinance is contained in LBMC Title 8, Health and Safety, Chapter 8.80, Noise.

Chapter 8.80, Noise, establishes exterior and interior noise limits for the generation of sound within the City. The maximum noise levels vary based on the receiving land use type and the cumulative duration of noise. Proposed amendments to LBMC 8.80 are shown in Attachment C and are outlined below. The amendments are designed to implement the Noise Element update and facilitate consistency with the LUE.

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Update Noise District Map for Consistency with Land Use Element PlaceTypes The 2019 LUE update established a number of mixed-use PlaceTypes that delineate areas that are currently mixed-use in nature and that are planned or anticipated to be more mixeduse in the future, and where commercial, residential and other compatible land uses will be integrated. Proposed amendments to the Noise Ordinance include updates to the boundaries of Noise District Two (District Two) of the Noise District Map to better reflect and be consistent with the recently adopted LUE PlaceTypes. Attachment C includes the map with the proposed District Two updates. Attachments F and G show the existing and proposed Noise District Maps in large format for direct comparison and greater legibility.

Currently, District Two consists of areas that contain predominantly commercial uses with other land use types also present (Attachment F). The proposed update to the Noise District Map expands District Two boundaries to better capture areas that currently are characterized by mixed use development or are planned for mixed-uses and commercial uses in the future through the LUE (Attachment G). The areas included in the District Two boundaries were determined based on geography, PlaceType, and existing and anticipated activity centers and development patterns.

Geographically, the proposed District Two boundaries expand upon the existing area to include additional portions of Downtown, Midtown, Central Long Beach and key Waterfront areas, as well as portions of Belmont Shore. Based on LUE PlaceType, the proposed area of District Two expansion generally includes areas found in the Downtown, Waterfront (WF), TransitOriented Development Moderate Density, Transit-Oriented Development Low Density PlaceTypes and a select area in the NSC-L PlaceType. The proposed changes to the Noise District Map are overlaid with the corresponding PlaceTypes of the proposed expansion areas in Attachment H.

In general, these areas tend to be high intensity, mixed-use areas that are served by transit, function as regional destinations, and incorporate visitor-serving uses. For example, the areas with the WF PlaceType included in District Two encompass uses such as the Queen Mary, the Aquarium of the Pacific and Shoreline Village. Second Street in Belmont Shore, between Livingston Drive and Bay Shore Avenue, are included within proposed District Two as a major pedestrian commercial area within the City. The past and future Belmont Plaza Pool Complex and nearby major retail center are also included within proposed District Two. As proposed, District Two would not include any areas designated primarily or solely residential uses (such as FCN, MFR-L and MFR-M). The proposed expansion of District Two is intended to include existing and planned areas designated for mixed-use and major activity centers in the city to align noise districts with the relevant LUE PlaceTypes. The expanded area of District Two consists of an increase in 3.7 percent (from 2 percent to 5.7 percent), or 1.96 square miles, of the City’s total area.

Update the Noise Limits Tables to Include Mixed-Use
The proposed amendments to the Noise Ordinance also include updating the Interior and Exterior Noise Limits Tables in the LBMC 8.80 to add mixed use as a land use type, including the corresponding maximum allowable daytime and nighttime decibel levels. For the exterior

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noise limits table, District Two, which previously consisted of predominantly commercial uses with other land uses present, would be updated to include mixed uses. For the interior noise limits table, a new mixed-use receiving land use type is proposed. The proposed corresponding noise limits were developed based on technical analysis, best practices and are in-line with other similar and nearby jurisdictions. There are no proposed increases to the noise level maximums allowed in the code. These proposed amendments to noise limits align and are consistent with the proposed updates to the Noise District Map. These proposed amendments incorporate limited mixed-use areas in the higher commercial noise district (District Two) while maintaining the existing standards for indoor and outdoor noise limits for all other districts including residential and other noise-sensitive land uses such as schools.

Update Administration and Enforcement Procedures
Additional text changes are proposed for LBMC Section 8.80.030, Administration and Enforcement, to permit designated City staff of all departments with noise regulation responsibilities to coordinate with and carry out the duties of the Noise Control Officer as necessary to ensure responsiveness to various kinds of noise complaints. This small but critical change will reduce delays in enforcing noise complaints, move away from a silo approach where different City staff enforce difference types of noise complaints and move forward with a noise-team approach across multiple departments. Additional text was included requiring the City to annually review the provisions of the Noise Ordinance to evaluate their effectiveness and consider potential process improvements. After meeting with various internal departments that have noise regulation responsibilities as well as receiving feedback from community members, these modifications are proposed to update administrative processes in a manner that will improve responsiveness to complaints and address community concerns. Enforcement was a topic of interest throughout the multi-year development process for the Noise Element, with much public interest in increasing the effectiveness and frequency of enforcement and with much internal discussion among City Departments regarding improving coordination and empowering a broader range of City staff to enforce the Noise Ordinance.

Special Events
During development of the Noise Element update, much of the community feedback focused on concerns about noise generated by special events that take place in the City as well as from those interested in maintaining or expanding the City’s many special events. OPR’s General Plan Guidelines state that the noise element should address stationary noise sources including noise from sources such as highways and freeways, major arterials and local streets, passenger and freight rail and ground rapid transit; aviation, military, and other facilities related to airport operations; industrial plants; and other stationary sources identified by local agencies that contribute to the noise environment. The City does not identify short-term, temporary, and seasonal special events as stationary noise sources that consist of typical noise patterns and contribute to the existing ambient noise setting. However, based on input from the community, the proposed Noise Element does establish general strategies and policies designed to help minimize noise impacts, including those that occur on a periodic basis, such as those from special events.

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In April 2018, at the request of the City Council, the Special Events and Filming Bureau prepared a Special Events Noise Study, which was a concurrent but separate effort from the Noise Element update. The Noise Element is a vision document that will inform Long Beach's long-term, holistic approach to ambient noise and provides a framework for general policies relating to special events, while the Special Events Noise Study more specifically focused on evaluating and identifying strategies for managing special events noise. The City’s Special Events and Filming Bureau hosted a community meeting on September 26, 2019, to present the findings of the Special Events Noise Study and the additional practices that would be instituted as part of the special events permitting process. The Special Events Noise Study sought to evaluate the existing regulations and procedures in place that relate to noise from special events; conduct case studies and identify best practices from select cities with comparable vibrancy and range of special events (Pasadena, California; Nashville, Tennessee; Austin, Texas; and, Seattle, Washington); and synthesize key findings and options, including standards, methods, strategies, technologies, for special events noise mitigation consideration.

As a result of this process, the Special Events and Filming Bureau implemented a number of measures to improve special events permitting processes and noise mitigation strategies.

These include special events applications being made available online, circulated through various City departments for review, and approved with conditions (e.g., limited hours, sound mitigation measures, sound monitoring methods, and community notifications); regular sound monitoring and reporting by the Health and Human Services Department and the Special Events and Filming Bureau; and availability of an after-hours hotline for concerns relating to special events. Noise conditions and mitigations may include amplified speaker conditions and additional sound mitigations such as the use of acoustical sound barriers. The Special Events and Filming Bureau continues to consider potential future special events mitigation measures, such as the implementation of sound reading available in real time and visible to the public.

Other potential future mitigation measures being considered include the use of sound monitoring boxes in downtown event parks during summer months, implementation of penalty fees, and website improvements.

Although the Noise Element is designed to address the long-term, ongoing impacts of noise due to stationary (permanent) sources such as land uses and transportation, as a policy document it still provides a framework for general policies about noise generated by special events. The Special Events Noise Study led to several policies that are included in the proposed Noise Element. For example, Strategy 13 in the plan, which calls for balancing the needs of special events while prioritizing the well-being of residents and is supported by six policies to increase access to information, provide efficient and standardized processes for special events permitting, implement and enforce procedures related to noise level requirements for special events, and to stay up to date with noise monitoring technology and noise assessment methods for special events. The Special Events Noise Study also informed the associated Noise Ordinance amendments, namely the update to LBMC Section 8.80.030 to clarify departmental responsibilities and administrative processes related to noise regulation.

Special Events in the Zoning Code and Coastal Zone
The City of Long Beach Temporary Uses Ordinance is contained in LBMC Title 21, Zoning, Chapter 21.53, Temporary Uses. Chapter 21.53, Temporary Uses, addresses the occurrence

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of special events, such as carnivals, fiestas, other outdoor exhibition or celebration in certain zoning districts. These regulations limit the types of temporary uses, including special events, that can occur in various locations, the length of time and frequency such events or temporary uses can occur.

Much of the public feedback related to the proposed Noise Element has been centered around concerns regarding special events that take place in the City’s Coastal Zone. In the Coastal Zone of Long Beach in which the City shares jurisdiction with the California Coastal Commission (CCC), coastal permitting may be required depending on the location of the special event and timing of the event to ensure the maintenance and preservation of coastal access in accordance with the California Coastal Act (Coastal Act) and the City’s Local Coastal Program (LCP). The City’s LCP is a separate document from the Noise Element update and an update to the LCP will have additional opportunities for outreach and public hearings.

City staff, Special Events and Filming Bureau and the CCC are working together on a Local Coastal Program Amendment to amend language in the LCP regarding public events at Alamitos Beach located at 780 Shoreline Drive. This Local Coastal Development Plan (LCDP) is a separate document from the Noise Element Update. The LCDP is designed to ensure that public events are in accordance with the provisions and permitting requirements within the CCC’s General Strand Policies. This LCPA would introduce policies related to the occurrence of special events and best management practices to ensure policies of the Coastal Act are adhered to.

The Coastal Zone is divided into three jurisdictions areas: 1) Coastal Commission Original Permit Jurisdiction; 2) Appealable Area; and 3) City Coastal Zone. Areas in red of the City of Long Beach Coastal Zone Map (Attachment I), are under the permitting authority of the CCC, which typically includes the sandy beach areas of the City’s coastline. Special events in these areas are required to demonstrate compliance with proposed amendments to LBMC Chapter

21.53 Temporary Uses and the CCC’s general strand policies for temporary events.

Taken together, Coastal regulations, the Noise Element, the temporary uses Ordinance, and City procedures seek to strike a balance between the benefits of special events, which provide social and cultural enrichment to city residents and visitors, economic activity and introduce many visitors to the City who later return again due to their positive experience at a special event; and any negative externalities from special events including noise, traffic and other closures, inconvenience or displeasure. While many residents have expressed concerns regarding special events during Planning Commission study sessions, there were also residents that expressed support of special events throughout the public process.

ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the State CEQA Guidelines, the city, as Lead Agency, prepared a Draft and Final Environmental Impact Report, EIR 03-20, State Clearinghouse No. 2019050009 (Attachment J). The Draft EIR was first released on March 23, 2021, and the public comment period ended June 14, 2021. City Staff received 21 comments during the comment period and responded to the comments in the Final EIR. During the EIR process, a common concern raised was the frequency and sound levels of special

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events in the waterfront area and categorization of special events as a temporary rather than stationary noise source. Several comments consisted of requests for noise limits to be added to the proposed Noise Element in addition to the LBMC. There was also concern expressed about changing the noise limits based on PlaceType. Several comments cited excessive noise as a hazard to public health. Some comments were provided regarding the City’s noise insulation standards in habitable rooms with doors and windows closed. EIR Chapter 2.0 Common Letters and Responses groups these common comments and provides responses.

The Noise Element update, and associated Noise Ordinance amendments do not result in any physical improvements but rather are planning actions, which are consistent with the adopted LUE, intended to comply with State law, better reflect the Long Beach noise environment today, and minimize exposure to excessive noise. No significant impacts were identified in the EIR analysis. The EIR found less than significant impacts related to land use and planning, noise, and transportation and further found that no mitigation is required for these less than significant impacts. However, the project is required to adhere to a project design feature related to land use and planning. The project design feature requires that a program be implemented to amend the LBMC to implement and ensure consistency between the proposed Noise Element and the LBMC, and that all inconsistencies between the proposed Noise Element and LBMC be resolved through text amendments within 36 months following project approval. The proposed amendments to the Noise Ordinance are consistent with and implement this project design feature.

After the EIR was circulated, minor text changes have been made to the draft plan and associated ordinance amendments. The October 2022 draft is the most recent version of the Noise Element update. Given the minor text edits made to the document, the EIR was not required to be recirculated for public comment. Per Section 15088.5, Recirculation of an EIR prior to certification of the CEQA Guidelines, the criteria for recirculation of an EIR is whether new significant information has come to light that would deprive the public of a meaningful review of a significant adverse project impact. The Noise Element’s minor text edits are not considered new significant information and would not result in a new, or significant impacts.

This matter was reviewed by Deputy City Attorney Erin Weesner-McKinley on May 23, 2023, and by Revenue Management Officer Geraldine Alejo on May 10, 2023.

PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
The required public hearing notice was provided in accordance with LBMC. A public hearing notice was published in the Long Beach Press-Telegram and the Grunion Gazette on May 23, 2023. Notices were provided to all City libraries, posted at three City parks, and posted at City Hall. The public hearing notice was posted on the Department’s website and distributed through the City’s LinkLB email blast system. As of the date of preparation of this report, no comments have been received.

TIMING CONSIDERATIONS
City Council action is requested on June 6, 2023. Pursuant to Section 21.25.103 of the Zoning Regulations, this request is to be presented to the City Council within 60 days of the Planning

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Commission hearing, which took place on the March 2, 2023. The June 6, 2023, public hearing date was the first available opportunity for the item to be reviewed by the City Council.

FISCAL IMPACT
The proposed Noise Element includes updated strategies and policies that will guide noise and land use throughout the City including implementing administration and enforcement efforts.

These efforts include an annual review of the Noise Ordinance and its effectiveness, as well as coordination across various City departments for enforcement efforts and increased responsiveness to community noise complaints. While it is anticipated that the adoption of the updated Noise Element will not have a staffing or fiscal impact in the current fiscal year, additional resources may be required in subsequent fiscal years to support these efforts as implementation moves forward. If needed, the Department will return to City Council with a request for appropriation once the associated cost impact and funding is identified to support these efforts. This recommendation has no staffing impact beyond the normal budgeted scope of duties and is consistent with City Council priorities. There is no local job impact associated with this recommendation.

SUGGESTED ACTION:

Approve recommendation.

Respectfully submitted,

CHRISTOPHER KOONTZ

DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT SERVICES
ATTACHMENTS: ORDINANCE

RESOLUTIONS
A - ORIGINAL 1975 NOISE ELEMENT

B - PROPOSED NOISE ELEMENT

C - PROPOSED NOISE ORDINANCE REDLINE

D - NOISE EXISTING CONDITIONS REPORT

E - FINDINGS

F - EXISTING NOISE DISTRICT MAP

G - PROPOSED NOISE DISTRICT MAP

H - PROPOSED DISTRICT MAP WITH PLACETYPE

I - CITY OF LONG BEACH COASTAL ZONE MAP

J - DRAFT AND FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
APPROVED:
___________
THOMAS B. MODICA

CITY MANAGER
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27 28 OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY DAWN MCINTOSH, City Attorney 411 W. Ocean Boulevard, 9th Floor Long Beach, CA 90802 ORDINANCE NO.

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE

CITY OF LONG BEACH AMENDING LONG BEACH
MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 8.80 TO IMPLEMENT

AMENDMENTS TO THE NOISE ORDINANCE
WHEREAS, Chapter 8.80 of the Long Beach Municipal Code establishes exterior and interior noise limits for the generation of sound within the City; and WHEREAS, an update to the City’s original 1975 Noise Element is proposed as well as the corresponding Long Beach Municipal Code amendment to the City’s Noise Ordinance to bring the City’s Noise Ordinance into conformance with the updated Noise Element and the 2019 General Plan Land Use Element; WHEREAS, the City desires to amend Chapter 8.80 to implement the Noise Element update and facilitate consistency with the Land Use Element; NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Long Beach ordains as follows:

Section 1. The Long Beach Municipal Code is amended by amending Subsection 8.80.030 to read as follows:

8.80.030 Administration and enforcement
The noise program established by this Chapter shall be administered by the noise control office as designated by the City Manager. An official within the noise control office shall be appointed as the Noise Control Officer and shall be a person with sufficient knowledge of environmental acoustics to enforce noise regulations. All departments with noise regulation responsibilities may, based on circumstance and need, carry out the duties of the Noise Control Officer to help ensure that noise complaints from the public are timely and adequately addressed. This includes but is not limited to taking noise measurements and acting as a case manager, upon receiving a noise complaint; 2 EWM:ag A23-01319 (5/17/2023)
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27 28 OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY DAWN MCINTOSH, City Attorney 411 W. Ocean Boulevard, 9th Floor Long Beach, CA 90802 coordinating with the Noise Control Officer and relevant departments as appropriate based on the circumstance; and conducting other actions necessary to facilitate resolution of the noise complaint. Further, the City is committed to annually reviewing the provisions of this ordinance.

Section 2. The Long Beach Municipal Code is amended by amending Table A to Subsection 8.80.160 as follows:

Table A

EXTERIOR NOISE LIMITS
Receiving Land Use District* Time Period Noise Level** (dBA) District One Night:
10:00 p.m.—7:00 a.m. 45
Day:
7:00 a.m.—10:00 p.m. 50
District Two Night:
10:00 p.m.—7:00 a.m. 55
Day:
7:00 a.m.—10:00 p.m. 60
District Three Any time 65
District Four Any time 70
District Five Regulated by other agencies
and laws
*District One: Predominantly residential with
other land use types also
present
District Two: Mixed-use or predominantly
commercial with other land
use types also present
Districts Three and Four: Predominantly industrial with other land types use also
present
District Five: Airport, freeways and
waterways regulated by other
agencies
** Districts Three and Four limits are intended primarily for use at their boundaries rather than for noise control within those districts.
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27 28 OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY DAWN MCINTOSH, City Attorney 411 W. Ocean Boulevard, 9th Floor Long Beach, CA 90802 Section 3. The Long Beach Municipal Code is amended by amending Table B to Subsection 8.80.160 by removing the existing Noise District Map and inserting the following Noise District Map:
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27 28 OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY DAWN MCINTOSH, City Attorney 411 W. Ocean Boulevard, 9th Floor Long Beach, CA 90802 Section 4. The Long Beach Municipal Code is amended by amending Subsection 8.80.170.A to read as follows:

8.80.170 Interior noise limits - Sound levels
A. The interior noise standards for various land use districts as presented in Table C shall apply, unless otherwise specifically indicated, within the structures located in designated zones with windows in their normal seasonal configuration.

TABLE C
Receiving Land
Use District
Type of
Land Use Time Interval
Allowable
Interior
Noise Level
(dBA)
All Residential
10:00 p.m.—7:00
35 45
a.m.
7:00 a.m.—10:00
p.m.

All Mixed-use
10:00 p.m. -7:00
45 50
a.m.
7:00 a.m.-10:00
p.m.

All
School
7:00 a.m.—10:00
p.m.
(While school is in
session)
45 Hospital, designated noise sensitive
zones
Any time 40
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27 28 OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY DAWN MCINTOSH, City Attorney 411 W. Ocean Boulevard, 9th Floor Long Beach, CA 90802 Section 5. The City Clerk shall certify to the passage of this ordinance by the City Council and cause it to be posted in three (3) conspicuous places in the City of Long Beach, and it shall take effect on the thirty-first (31st) day after it is approved by the Mayor.

I hereby certify that the foregoing ordinance was adopted by the City Council of the City of Long Beach at its meeting of , 2023, by the following vote:

Ayes: Councilmembers:

Noes: Councilmembers:

Absent: Councilmembers:

Recusal(s): Councilmembers:

City Clerk
Approved:
(Date) Mayor
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27 28 OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY DAWN MCINTOSH, City Attorney 411 West Ocean Boulevard, 9th Floor Long Beach, CA 90802 RESOLUTION NO.

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE

CITY OF LONG BEACH CERTIFYING THAT THE FINAL
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT (“EIR 03-20”) FOR THE

GENERAL PLAN NOISE ELEMENT PROJECT IN THE CITY
OF LONG BEACH (STATE CLEARINGHOUSE NO.
2019050009), HAS BEEN COMPLETED IN ACCORDANCE

WITH THE PROVISIONS OF THE CALIFORNIA

ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT, AND STATE AND LOCAL
GUIDELINES; AND MAKING CERTAIN FINDINGS AND

DETERMINATIONS RELATIVE THERETO
WHEREAS, the City of Long Beach has proposed to update the Noise Element of the General Plan (“Project”) involving an update to the City’s original 1975 Noise Element as well as the corresponding Long Beach Municipal Code amendment to the City’s Noise Ordinance to bring it into conformance with the updated Noise Element and the 2019 General Plan Land Use Element, respectively. The Long Beach General Plan Noise Element was first adopted in 1975, and the Noise Ordinance was last updated in 1977. Since then, the City’s physical makeup, population, and regional context, and the regulatory guidance around noise has changed significantly. The proposed Noise Element update will replace the existing 1975 document and provide a tailored approach to noise policies and land use, recognizing characteristics of the City’s mixed-use, urban environment and major transportation corridors; and
Said Project is more fully described in the Final Environmental Impact Report (“FEIR”) for the General Plan Noise Element (State Clearinghouse No. 2019050009), a copy of which FEIR, including the complete proposed Project description, is incorporated herein by this reference as though set forth in full, word for 2 EWM:ag A23-01319 (5/17/2023)
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27 28 OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY DAWN MCINTOSH, City Attorney 411 West Ocean Boulevard, 9th Floor Long Beach, CA 90802 word; and
WHEREAS, Project implementation will require certification of the Final FEIR; and
WHEREAS, an Initial Study was prepared in accordance with CEQA which concluded that an Environmental Impact Report would be the appropriate level of review in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and CEQA Guidelines section 15161; and
WHEREAS, the City began an evaluation of the proposed project by issuing a Notice of Preparation (NOP) for a FEIR, which report was circulated from May 17, 2019 to June 17, 2019. A Notice of Completion was prepared and filed with the State Office of Planning and Research initially on March 23, 2021; and
WHEREAS, implementation of the Project constitutes a “project” as defined by CEQA, Public Resources Code Sections 21000 et seq., and the City of Long Beach is the Lead Agency for the Project under CEQA; and
WHEREAS, it was determined during the initial processing of the Project that it could have potentially significant effects on the environment, requiring preparation of an FEIR; and
WHEREAS, the City prepared full and complete responses to the comments received on the FEIR, and distributed the responses in accordance with Public Resources Code section 21092.5; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has reviewed and considered the information in, and the comments to, the DEIR and responses thereto, and the FEIR at a duly noticed City Council meeting held on June 6, 2023, at which time evidence, both written and oral, was presented to and considered by the City Council; and WHEREAS, the City Council has read and considered all environmental documentation comprising the FEIR, including the DEIR, comments and the responses to comments, and errata (if any) included in the FEIR, and has determined that the FEIR considers all potentially significant environmental impacts of the Project and is complete 3 EWM:ag A23-01319 (5/17/2023)
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27 28 OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY DAWN MCINTOSH, City Attorney 411 West Ocean Boulevard, 9th Floor Long Beach, CA 90802 and adequate, and fully complies with all requirements of CEQA and the State CEQA Guidelines; and
WHEREAS, the City Council evaluated and considered all significant impacts, mitigation measures, and project alternatives identified in the FEIR; NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Long Beach does hereby find, determine and resolve that:

Section 1. All the above recitals are true and correct and are incorporated herein as though fully set forth.

Section 2. The FEIR is adequate and provides good faith disclosure of available information on the Project, and all reasonable and feasible alternatives thereto, and has been completed in compliance with CEQA and the State CEQA Guidelines.

Section 3. The FEIR, which reflects the City Council’s independent judgment and analysis, is hereby adopted, approved, and certified as complete and adequate under CEQA.

Section 4. Pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21081 and State CEQA Guidelines section 15091, the City Council has reviewed and hereby adopts the CEQA Findings of Fact regarding the Final Environmental Impacts for the General Plan Noise Element as shown on the attached Exhibit “A”, which document is incorporated herein by reference as though set forth in full, word for word.

Section 5. Pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines section 15091(e), the record of proceedings relating to this matter has been made available to the public at, among other places, City Hall, Department of Development Services, 3rd Floor, 333 W.

Ocean Boulevard, Long Beach, California, and at the new City Hall, Department of Development Services, 411 W. Ocean Boulevard, 3rd Floor, Long Beach, California, and is, and has been, available for review during normal business hours.

Section 6. The information provided in the various staff reports submitted in connection with the Project, the corrections and modifications to the DEIR, and the FEIR made in response to comments and any errata which were not previously re- 4 EWM:ag A23-01319 (5/17/2023)
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27 28 OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY DAWN MCINTOSH, City Attorney 411 West Ocean Boulevard, 9th Floor Long Beach, CA 90802 circulated, and the evidence presented in written and oral testimony at the public hearing, do not represent significant new information so as to require further re-circulation of the FEIR pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 15088.5.

Section 7. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption by the City Council, and the City Clerk shall certify the vote adopting this resolution.

I hereby certify that the foregoing resolution was adopted by the City Council of the City of Long Beach at its meeting of _______________________, 2023, by the following vote:

Ayes: Councilmembers:

Noes: Councilmembers:

Absent: Councilmembers:

City Clerk
City of Long Beach Noise Element and Noise Ordinance
CEQA Findings of Fact

FINDINGS OF FACT IN SUPPORT OF FINDINGS FOR THE

FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT

FOR THE

CITY OF LONG BEACH NOISE ELEMENT AND NOISE ORDINANCE
(CERTIFICATION OF AN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT,

MUNICIPAL CODE AMENDMENT AND GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT)
STATE CLEARINGHOUSE NO. 2019050009
I. BACKGROUND
Public Resources Code (PRC) Section 21002 states that “public agencies should not approve projects as proposed if there are feasible alternatives or feasible mitigation measures available which would substantially lessen the significant environmental effects of such projects[.]” Section 21002 further states that the procedures required by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) “are intended to assist public agencies in systematically identifying both the significant effects of proposed projects and the feasible alternatives or feasible mitigation measures which will avoid or substantially lessen such significant effects.”
Agencies demonstrate compliance with Section 21002’s mandate by adopting findings before approving projects for which Environmental Impact Reports (EIRs) are required. (See PRC § 21081, subd. (a); State CEQA Guidelines, § 15091, subd. (a).) The approving agency must make written findings for each significant environmental effect identified in an EIR for a proposed project and must reach at least one of three permissible conclusions. The first possible finding is that “[c]hanges or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which avoid or substantially lessen the significant environmental effect as identified in the final EIR.” (State CEQA Guidelines, § 15091, subd. (a)(1).) The second permissible finding is that “[s]uch changes or alterations are within the responsibility and jurisdiction of another public agency and not the agency making the finding” and that “[s]uch changes have been adopted by such other agency or can and should be adopted by such other agency.” (State CEQA Guidelines, § 15091, subd. (a)(2).) The third potential conclusion is that “[s]pecific economic, legal, social, technological, or other considerations, including provision of employment opportunities for highly trained workers, make infeasible the mitigation measures or project alternatives identified in the final EIR.” (State CEQA Guidelines, § 15091, subd. (a)(3).)
Agencies must not adopt a project with significant environmental impacts if feasible alternatives or mitigation measures would substantially lessen the significant impacts. PRC Section 21061.1 defines “feasible” to mean “capable of being accomplished in a successful manner within a reasonable period of time, taking into account economic, environmental, social and technological factors.” State CEQA Guidelines Section 15364 adds “legal” considerations as another indicia of feasibility. (See also Citizens of Goleta Valley v. Board of Supervisors (1990) 52 Cal.3d 553, 565.) Project objectives also inform the determination of “feasibility.” (City of Del Mar v. City of San Diego (1982) 133 Cal.App.3d 401, 417.) Further, “‘feasibility’ under CEQA encompasses ‘desirability’ to the extent that desirability is based on a reasonable balancing of the relevant economic, environmental, social, and technological factors.” (Id.; see also Sequoyah Hills Homeowners Assn. v. City of Oakland (1993) 23 Cal.App.4th 704, 715.) An agency need not, however, adopt infeasible mitigation measures or alternatives. (State CEQA Guidelines, § 15091, Exhibit A
City of Long Beach Noise Element and Noise Ordinance
CEQA Findings of Fact

subds. (a), (b).) Further, environmental impacts that are less than significant do not require the imposition of mitigation measures. (Leonoff v. Monterey County Board of Supervisors (1990) 222 Cal.App.3d 1337, 1347.)
Notably, Section 21002 requires an agency to “substantially lessen or avoid” significant adverse environmental impacts. Thus, mitigation measures that “substantially lessen” significant environmental impacts, even if not completely avoided, satisfy section 21002’s mandate. (Laurel Hills Homeowners Assn. v. City Council (1978) 83 Cal.App.3d 515, 521 (“CEQA does not mandate the choice of the environmentally best feasible project if through the imposition of feasible mitigation measures alone the appropriate public agency has reduced environmental damage from a project to an acceptable level”); Las Virgenes Homeowners Federation, Inc. v. County of Los Angeles (1986) 177 Cal.App.3d 300, 309 (“[t]here is no requirement that adverse impacts of a project be avoided completely or reduced to a level of insignificance . . . if such would render the project unfeasible”).) CEQA requires that the Lead Agency adopt mitigation measures or alternatives, where feasible, to substantially lessen or avoid significant environmental impacts that would otherwise occur. Project modification or alternatives are not required, however, where such changes are infeasible or where the responsibility for modifying the project lies with some other agency. (State CEQA Guidelines, § 15091, subds. (a), (b).) The California Supreme Court has stated, “[t]he wisdom of approving . . . any development project, a delicate task which requires a balancing of interests, is necessarily left to the sound discretion of the local officials and their constituents who are responsible for such decisions. The law as we interpret and apply it simply requires that those decisions be informed, and therefore balanced.” (Citizens of Goleta Valley v. Board of Supervisors, supra, 52 Cal.3d at p. 576.) The City of Long Beach (City) City Council, as the decision-making body of the CEQA Lead Agency, has determined that based on all the evidence presented, including, but not limited to, the Final EIR, written and oral testimony given at meetings and hearings on the project, and submission of testimony from the public, organizations and regulatory agencies, the following environmental impacts associated with the project are: (1) less than significant and do not require mitigation. The City Council has further determined that the project would not result in any significant unavoidable adverse impacts.

A. PROJECT SUMMARY
The proposed project is the adoption of a new General Plan Noise Element, which would replace the City’s existing 1975 Noise Element. As required by Section 65302 of the California Government Code, the Noise Element is a required element of a City’s General Plan. The proposed Noise Element includes strategies and policies intended to provide protection for land uses, as identified in the Land Use Element (LUE), from excessive noise and vibration sources, as well as to implement the vision of a healthy, livable noise environment in the City.

The topics of noise and vibration are introduced with a discussion of the function of a Noise Element and its role within other planning and regulatory frameworks, the community engagement involved in shaping the element, and concepts for implementing the vision of the element. The Noise Element also includes information related to noise fundamentals, such as the characteristics of sound, measurement of sound and definitions of acoustical terms, physiological effects of exposure to noise, and common sound levels and their noise sources.

City of Long Beach Noise Element and Noise Ordinance
CEQA Findings of Fact

As part of the Noise Element, the City has established 16 strategies related to noise, which would aid review of future projects and their associated environmental impacts. In addition to the 16 strategies, the proposed Noise Element contains numerous policies that work together to achieve the goals of creating a healthy, livable community with the equitable distribution of noise, minimizing exposures to excessive noise, and allowances for elements necessary for a dynamic, growing city. These citywide policies aim to provide a holistic and comprehensive guide for the City, whereas future projects facilitated by project approval would provide a refined direction for distinct areas within the City.

Chapter 5 of the proposed Noise Element includes a Noise Plan, which addresses strategies and policies related to six topic areas describing sources of existing noise and vibration: (1) PlaceType Characteristics and Land Use Compatibility; (2) Mobility, including vehicular noise, rail, aircraft, and watercraft; (3) Construction; (4) Special Events; (5) Environmental Justice and Social Equity; and (6) Noise Management.

Chapter 6.0 of the proposed Noise Element includes implementation measures (comprised of tools and strategies), which are intended to be used to effectively implement the goals and policies contained in the Noise Plan. Implementation tools consist of the City’s regulatory processes, such aszoning regulations, the Noise Ordinance which is being updated as part of this project, development review, building and housing codes, CEQA compliance, City noise procedures and management, interagency coordination, and enforcement. The implementation strategies summarize goals and policies from the Noise Plan and identify the responsible City departments and general timeframes for completion. Periodic progress reports will be prepared every two to three years to ensure that the City is adhering to implementation strategies outlined in the Noise Element.

The City of Long Beach Noise Ordinance is contained in Title 8, Health and Safety, Chapter 8.80, Noise, of the City’s Municipal Code. Chapter 8.80, Noise, establishes exterior and interior noise limits for the generation of sound within the City. The maximum noise levels vary based on the receiving land use type and the cumulative duration of noise.

Several amendments to the Noise Ordinance would be included as part of the proposed project. A Project Design Feature (PDF) is a specific component of the proposed project that has been incorporated in the project design to reduce potential environmental effects. This PDF is a part of the proposed project and does not constitute a mitigation measure. It is, however, included in this Draft EIR because it is intended to reduce potential project impacts. If applicable, PDFs are also described in the relevant sections of Chapter 4.0 for reduction of environmental effects of the proposed project. PDFs are not included for each environmental topic.

B. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW PROCESS
In conformance with CEQA, the State CEQA Guidelines, and the City of Long Beach policies regarding the implementation of CEQA, the City conducted an extensive environmental review of the proposed project.
• The City determined that an EIR would be required for the proposed project and issued a Notice of Preparation (NOP) on May 17, 2019. The City also conducted a public scoping meeting on May 30, 2019, to present the proposed project and to solicit input from interested parties regarding environmental issues that should be addressed in the EIR. Section 2.2 of the Draft EIR describes the issues identified for analysis in the Draft EIR through the NOP and the public scoping process. Section City of Long Beach Noise Element and Noise Ordinance
CEQA Findings of Fact

2.4, Effects Found Not to Be Significant, identifies environmental issues that were considered, but for which no adverse impacts were identified during scoping. As such, these environmental issues were not discussed in the Draft EIR.

The City prepared a Draft EIR, which was made available for a 45-day public review period, from March 23, 2021 to May 6, 2021. Due to a noticing oversight, and in order to ensure that all interested parties had sufficient time to review, the public review period was extended from May 6, 2021 to June 14, 2021. On April 30, 2021, a notice of extension of the public review period was sent to the project distribution list and updated on the City’s website. The City prepared a Final EIR, including the Responses to Comments to the Draft EIR and this Findings of Fact. The Final EIR/Response to Comments contains comments on the Draft EIR, responses to those comments, text errata to the Draft EIR, and appended documents. The Responses to Comments were distributed to commenting parties at least 10 days prior to the first public hearing held on the project at the March 2, 2023 Planning Commission meeting.

C. RECORD OF PROCEEDINGS
For purposes of CEQA and these Findings, the Record of Proceedings for the proposed project consists of the following documents and other evidence, at a minimum:
• The NOP and all other public notices issued by the City in conjunction with the proposed project; • All written comments submitted by agencies or members of the public during the public review comment period on the NOP;
• The Final EIR for the proposed project;
• The Draft EIR;
• All written comments submitted by agencies or members of the public during the public review comment period on the Draft EIR;
• All responses to written comments submitted by agencies or members of the public during the public review comment period on the Draft EIR;
• The Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (MMRP) (Project Design Features); • The reports and technical memoranda included or referenced in the Response to Comments; • All documents, studies, EIRs, or other materials incorporated by reference in the Draft EIR and Final EIR;
• The Resolutions adopted by the City in connection with the proposed project, and all documents incorporated by reference therein, including comments received after the close of the comment period and responses thereto;
• Matters of common knowledge to the City, including but not limited to federal, State, and local laws and regulations;
• Any documents expressly cited in these Findings; and
• Any other relevant materials required to be in the record of proceedings by Public Resources Code (PRC) Section 21167.6(e).

City of Long Beach Noise Element and Noise Ordinance
CEQA Findings of Fact

D. CUSTODIAN AND LOCATION OF RECORDS
The documents and other materials that constitute the administrative record for the City’s actions related to the project are located at the City of Long Beach City Hall, 411 West Ocean Boulevard, 3rd Floor, Long Beach, California 90802. The City’s Development Services Department is the custodian of the administrative record for the proposed project. Copies of these documents, which constitute the record of proceedings, are and at all relevant times have been and will be available upon request at the offices of the City’s Development Services Department. This information is provided in compliance with PRC Section 21081.6(a)(2) and State CEQA Guidelines Section 15091(e).

II. FINDINGS OF FACT
This section provides a summary of the proposed project’s impacts, as identified in the Final EIR, that would have no impact or less than significant impact without mitigation. The project would not require any mitigation. The proposed project does not have any significant and unavoidable impacts.

A. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS THAT WERE DETERMINED NOT TO BE POTENTIALLY

AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED PROJECT
As a result of the IS that was circulated with the NOP by the City on May 17, 2019, the City determined, based upon the threshold criteria for significance, that the proposed project would not result in significant potential environmental impacts in several areas; therefore, the City determined that these potential environmental effects would not be evaluated further in the EIR. Based upon the environmental analysis documented in Chapter 2.0 of the Final EIR, no substantial evidence has been submitted to or identified by the City that indicates that the proposed project would have an impact on the following environmental areas:

Aesthetics: The proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or developments that would result in impacts to scenic vistas. The project would not result in changes to height or density of land uses, and consequently, the project would not impact views of scenic resources in the planning area. As a result of implementation of the proposed project, the existing scenic quality of the planning area would remain unchanged and sources of light and glare in the planning area would remain the same as existing conditions. Each future discretionary project within the City would be evaluated individually and project-specific mitigation would be proposed as needed. For these reasons, approval of the proposed project would not result in substantial adverse impacts to aesthetics. Therefore, this issue was not evaluated further in the Draft EIR.

Agriculture/Forestry Resources: The planning area is almost entirely developed and is not used for agricultural or forestry purposes. No properties within the planning area are designated Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance nor are there areas zoned for agricultural or forestry uses. Further, there are no areas protected by a Williamson Act contract. As such, implementation of the proposed project would not result in environmental changes that could result in the conversion of farmland to nonagricultural use or the conversion of forest land to non-forest use.

Furthermore, the proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not City of Long Beach Noise Element and Noise Ordinance
CEQA Findings of Fact

include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would result in impacts to agricultural and forestry resources. Therefore, this issue was not evaluated further in the Draft EIR.

Air Quality: The planning area includes the entirety of the City of Long Beach, which is part of the South Coast Air Basin (Basin). The Basin includes all of Orange County and portions of Los Angeles, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties. Air quality within the Basin is under the jurisdiction of the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD). SCAQMD and the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) adopted the 2016 Air Quality Management Plan (2016 AQMP) in March 2017. The proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would conflict with the 2016 Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP), result in an exceedance of SCAQMD criteria pollutant emission thresholds, result in increased short- or long-term emissions, or generate odors within the planning area. Any future discretionary project within the City would be evaluated individually, and project-specific mitigation would be proposed as needed. Therefore, this issue was not evaluated further in the Draft EIR.

Biological Resources: In its existing setting, the planning area is almost entirely developed and is located in an urban area of Los Angeles County. These urban areas do not contain mapped habitat for any sensitive biological species as identified on local/regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) or the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS).

Although the majority of the planning area is urban in nature, the City contains a number of open space areas (e.g., El Dorado Regional Park, the Los Angeles and San Gabriel Rivers, Los Cerritos Wetlands, beaches along the Pacific Ocean shoreline, rights-of-way, marinas, bays, riparian habitat, and wetlands) that have the potential to support sensitive biological resources. However, the proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would result in impacts to biological resources. Existing habitat and species would not be affected as a result of implementation of the proposed project.

According to the National Wetlands Inventory managed by the USFWS, although the majority of the planning area is urban in nature, the planning area does contain riparian habitat that has the potential to support sensitive biological resources; however, the planning area does contain State and federally protected wetlands that have the potential to support sensitive biological resources.As stated previously, the proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would result in impacts to biological resources.

The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) and California Fish and Game Code 3503 protect most native bird species from destruction or harm. This protection extends to individuals, as well as any part, nest, or eggs of any bird listed as migratory. Most native North American bird species are on the MBTA list. Implementation of the proposed project would not result in impacts related to interference with the movement of species within wildlife corridors. As stated previously, the proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would result in impacts to biological resources.

City of Long Beach Noise Element and Noise Ordinance
CEQA Findings of Fact

The City of Long Beach Municipal Code (Ordinance C-7642) regulates the care and removal of trees on public property and is intended to preserve and protect the community’s urban forest and to promote the health and safety of City trees. The City’s Municipal Code requires that a municipal permit from the City of Long Beach Director of Public Works be obtained prior to the removal of trees on Cityowned property. The City’s Tree Maintenance Policy also requires a 1:1 replacement ratio and payment of a fee that is equivalent to a City-approved 15-gallon tree. Implementation of the proposed project would not conflict with the City’s tree preservation policies. As stated previously, the proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would result in impacts to biological resources.

There are no adopted Habitat Conservation Plans (HCP), Natural Communities Conservation Plans (NCCP), or other similar plans within the City.

For the reasons stated above, the proposed project would not result in significant impacts to biological resources. Any future discretionary project within the City would be evaluated individually, and project-specific mitigation would be proposed as needed. Therefore, this issue was not evaluated further in the Draft EIR.

Cultural and Tribal Cultural Resources: Implementation of the proposed project would not cause a substantial change in the significance of a historical, archaeological, or tribal cultural resource. CEQA defines a “historical resource” as a resource that meets one or more of the following criteria: (1) listed in, or determined eligible for listing in, the California Register of Historical Resources; (2) listed in a local register of historical resources as defined in Public Resources Code (PRC) Section 5020.1(k); (3) identified as significant in a historical resource survey meeting the requirements of PRC Section 5024.1(g); or (4) determined to be a historical resource by a project’s Lead Agency (PRC Section 21084.1 and State CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.5[a]). The proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would result in impacts to historical resources.

The City’s General Plan Land Use Element aims to minimize potential impacts to unknown archaeological resources through compliance with applicable federal, State, and local guidelines. In its existing setting, the planning area is almost entirely developed and is located in an urban area of Los Angeles County. Consequently, much of the planning area has been previously disturbed as a result of past construction activities in the City. As stated previously, the proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would result in impacts to archaeological resources. Similarly, the proposed project would not disturb any human remains.

For the reasons stated above, the proposed project would not result in significant impacts to cultural resources. Any future discretionary project within the City would be evaluated individually, and project-specific mitigation would be proposed as needed. Therefore, this issue was not evaluated further in the Draft EIR.

City of Long Beach Noise Element and Noise Ordinance
CEQA Findings of Fact

Energy: The proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would require energy consumption.

As such, the proposed project would not result in an environmental impact due to wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy resources because the project would not require energy consumption, nor would it conflict with state or local plans for renewable energy or energy efficiency. Any future discretionary project within the City would be evaluated individually, and project-specific mitigation would be proposed as needed. Therefore, this issue was not evaluated further in the Draft EIR.

Geology and Soils: Given the City’s location in the seismically active area of Southern California, portions of the planning area are located within a Fault Zone, as designated by the California Department of Conservation (DOC) and United States Geological Survey (USGS). According to the City’s General Plan Seismic Safety Element (1988), the most prominent fault zone in the City is the Newport-Inglewood Fault Zone, which transverses the City from the northwest to the southeast. The proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development. Future individual projects subject to discretionary approval would be required to be consistent with City requirements established in the Seismic Safety Element and would be required to comply with current applicable building codes. As such, implementation of the proposed project would not expose people or structures to substantial adverse effects related to the risk of loss, injury, or death involving the rupture of a known earthquake fault, strong seismic ground shaking, or seismic related failure (e.g., liquefaction or landslides).

As stated previously, the proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would result in impacts related to substantial soil erosion, unstable soils, expansive soils, or soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems. Compliance with applicable building codes in effect at the time future projects are proposed and preparation of site-specific geology and soils engineering studies would ensure that future projects would not result in impacts related to substantial soil erosion, unstable soils, expansive soils, or soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems.

In its existing setting, the planning area is almost entirely developed and is located in an urban area of Los Angeles County. Consequently, much of the planning area has been previously disturbed as a result of past construction activities in the City. As stated previously, the proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would impact paleontological resources. As a result of implementation of the proposed project, the existing paleontological setting would remain unchanged.

For the reasons stated above, the proposed project would not result in significant impacts to geology and soils. Any future discretionary project within the City would be evaluated individually, and project specific mitigation would be proposed as needed. Therefore, this issue was not evaluated further in the Draft EIR.

City of Long Beach Noise Element and Noise Ordinance
CEQA Findings of Fact

Greenhouse Gas Emissions: The proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would directly or indirectly generate GHG emissions or conflict with any plans, policies, or regulations adopted for the purpose of reducing GHG emissions. Any future discretionary project within the City would be evaluated individually, and project-specific mitigation would be proposed as needed. Therefore, this issue was not evaluated further in the Draft EIR.

Hazards and Hazardous Materials: Hazardous materials are chemicals that could potentially cause harm during an accidental release or mishap, and are defined as being toxic, corrosive, flammable, reactive, and an irritant or strong sensitizer. Hazardous substances include all chemicals regulated under the United States Department of Transportation “hazardous materials” regulations and the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) “hazardous waste” regulations. Hazardous wastes require special handling and disposal because of their potential to damage public health and the environment. The probable frequency and severity of consequences from the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials is affected by the type of substance, the quantity used or managed, and the nature of the activities and operations. The proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would involve the transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials; create a hazard to the public or the environment through the release of hazardous materials; emit hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within 0.25 mile of any school; result in a significant impact related to a known hazardous materials site pursuant to Government Code Section 65965.5, and therefore, would not create a significant hazard to the public or the environment; interfere with air traffic patterns, conflict with established Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) flight protection zones, or conflict with building height standards established by the FAA for structures on and adjacent to the Long Beach Airport; interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan; nor expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury, or death from wildland fires. Any future discretionary project within the City would be evaluated individually, and project-specific mitigation would be proposed as needed.

Further, future individual projects subject to discretionary approval would be required to comply with all policies set forth in the City’s Emergency Operations Plan and the General Plan Public Safety Element (1978). Therefore, this issue was not evaluated further in the Draft EIR.

Hydrology and Water Quality: The City is subject to the requirements of the Waste Discharge Requirements for Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System Discharges from the City of Long Beach (City of Long Beach MS4 Permit), Order No. R4-2014-0024, NPDES No. CAS004003. The proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would result in the violation of water quality standards or waste discharge requirements. Further, future projects would be designed to implement Storm Water Prevention Plans, Construction Best Management Practices (BMPs), Low Impact Development (LID) Plans, and other mitigation, where necessary, to mitigate adverse impacts related to water quality standards or waste discharge requirements.

The City is highly urbanized, with infrastructure in place to accommodate future development projects. Approximately 60 percent of the City’s existing water supply consists of groundwater extracted City of Long Beach Noise Element and Noise Ordinance
CEQA Findings of Fact

from the local Central Basin of the Los Angeles groundwater basin, with the remaining 40 percent consisting of imported water purchased from the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California.

As stated previously, the proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would result in the depletion of groundwater supplies or interference with groundwater recharge. Additionally, implementation of the proposed project would not result in the alteration of existing drainage patterns or alterations to the course of a stream or river. The proposed project does not include or facilitate physical improvements that would be at risk of inundation in the event of flood, tsunami, or seiche events.

Lastly, the proposed project addresses the noise environment in the City and does not conflict with or obstruct implementation of a water quality control plan or sustainable groundwater management plan.

For the reasons stated above, the proposed project would not result in significant impacts to hydrology and water quality. Any future discretionary project within the City would be evaluated individually, and project-specific mitigation would be proposed as needed. Therefore, this issue was not evaluated further in the Draft EIR.

Land Use Planning: Physically divide an established community. The approval of the proposed project is considered a policy/ planning action and does not include or facilitate any physical improvements that would result in the division of any established communities. Any future discretionary project within the City would be evaluated individually, and project-specific mitigation would be proposed as needed. Therefore, this issue was not evaluated further in the Draft EIR.

Mineral Resources: According to the City’s General Plan Conservation Element (1973), the mineral resources within the City have historically consisted of oil and natural gas. However, over the last century, oil and natural gas extractions have diminished as the resources have become increasingly depleted.

Although extraction operations continue, they are on a reduced scale as compared to past historic levels.

The proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource of value. As a result of project implementation, availability of existing mineral resources and locally important mineral resource recovery sites would remain unchanged. Any future discretionary project within the City would be evaluated individually, and project-specific mitigation would be proposed as needed. Therefore, this issue was not evaluated further in the Draft EIR.

Population and Housing: In its existing condition, the City is urbanized and includes a range of housing types and land uses that provide housing and employment opportunities to its residents. The proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development and would not directly or indirectly induce substantial unplanned population growth. No physical improvements are proposed as part of the project, and therefore, no new homes, businesses, roads, or other infrastructure would be constructed within the City as a result of project implementation. As a result of project implementation, no existing people or housing would be displaced, and the construction of replacement housing would not be necessary. Any future discretionary project within the City would be evaluated individually, and project-specific mitigation would be proposed as needed. Therefore, this issue was not evaluated further in the Draft EIR.

City of Long Beach Noise Element and Noise Ordinance
CEQA Findings of Fact

Public Services: The proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that may require fire protection services, police protection services, or school services. Additionally, implementation of the proposed project would not result in an increase in the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks, recreational facilities, or other public facilities. Any future discretionary project within the City would be evaluated individually, and project-specific mitigation would be proposed as needed. Therefore, implementation of the proposed project would not necessitate the need for new fire, police, school, parks and recreation, or other public facilities. Therefore, this issue was not evaluated further in the Draft EIR.

Recreation: The proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would result in impacts to recreational facilities. Additionally, implementation of the proposed project would not result in an increase in the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or recreational facilities. The proposed project does not include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities. Any future discretionary project within the City would be evaluated individually, and projectspecific mitigation would be proposed as needed. Therefore, implementation of the proposed project would not result in impacts to park and recreation. Therefore, this issue was not evaluated further in the Draft EIR.

Transportation: Conflicts with State CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3 subdivision (b); Changes in the exposure to hazards due to a design feature; and inadequate emergency access: The proposed project is considered a policy/planning action and does not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development. Additionally, the proposed project is not considered a land use or transportation project as defined by State CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3 subdivision (b). As such, the implementation of the proposed project would result in less than significant impacts related to conflicts with State CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3 subdivision (b), changes in the exposure to hazards due to a design feature, and inadequate emergency access. Any future discretionary project within the City would be evaluated individually, and project-specific mitigation would be proposed as needed. Therefore, this issue was not evaluated further in the Draft EIR.

Tribal Cultural Resources: As discussed in Section 2.4.5, Cultural Resources, the proposed project would not cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource as defined in Section 15064.5 of the State CEQA Guidelines or PRC Section 5020.1(k) because the project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance. As a planning/policy action, the proposed project does not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would result in impacts to historical resources.

The proposed project would be required to comply with Assembly Bill (AB) 52 and Senate Bill (SB) 18 regarding tribal consultation. In compliance with AB 52 and SB 18, letters were distributed to the following local Native American tribal representatives on April 1, 2020:
• Gabrieleno Band of Mission Indians – Kizh Nation, Andrew Salas • Gabrieleno/Tongva San Gabriel Band of Mission Indians, Anthony Morales City of Long Beach Noise Element and Noise Ordinance
CEQA Findings of Fact

• Gabrieleno Tongva Indians of California Tribal Council, Robert Dorame • Gabrieleno/Tongva Nation, Sandonne Goad
• Gabrieleno-Tongva Tribe, Charles Alvarez
• Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians, Joseph Ontiveros
• Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians, Michael Mirelez • Gabrielino-Tongva Tribe, Linda Candelaria
The letters are included as Appendix C of this Draft EIR. The letters provide each tribe the opportunity to request consultation with the City regarding the project. In compliance with AB 52, tribes have 30 days from the date of receipt of notification to request consultation on the project. SB 18 mandates that tribes receive 45 days from the date of receipt of notification to request consultation on the project. No responses from tribal representatives were received during the consultation period. As such, the tribal consultation process is considered closed.

As stated previously, the proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements that would result in impacts to tribal cultural resources.

For the reasons stated above, the proposed project would not result in significant impacts to tribal cultural resources. Any future discretionary project within the City would be evaluated individually, and project-specific mitigation would be proposed as needed. Therefore, this issue was not evaluated further in the Draft EIR.

Utilities/Service Systems: The proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would require or result in the relocation or construction of new or expanded water or wastewater treatment or storm water drainage, electric power, natural gas, or telecommunications facilities. Implementation of the project would not require water usage or wastewater generation, and does not include any utility improvements related to water or wastewater. Similarly, as a policy/planning action, the project does not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would generate solid waste. Any future discretionary project within the City would be evaluated individually, and project-specific mitigation would be proposed as needed. As such, impacts to utilities and service systems would be less than significant. Therefore, this issue was not evaluated further in the Draft EIR.

Wildfire: In its existing setting, the planning area is almost entirely developed and is located in an urban area of Los Angeles County. California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) publishes maps that predict the threat of fire in individual counties in the State. Local responsibility areas and State or federal responsibility areas are classified as either very high fire hazard severity zones (VHFHSZ) or non-VHFHSZ based on factors including fuel availability, topography, fire history, and climate.

The planning area is not located in or near a State Responsibility Area and does not include land classified as VHFHSZ as defined by CAL FIRE.1 The proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions City of Long Beach Noise Element and Noise Ordinance
CEQA Findings of Fact

and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would result in exacerbated wildfire risk. Any future discretionary project within the City would be evaluated individually, and project-specific mitigation would be proposed as needed. Therefore, this issue was not evaluated further in the Draft EIR.

B. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS WHICH WERE DETERMINED TO BE LESS THAN

SIGNIFICANT
The Draft EIR included a discussion of impacts that were not scoped out during the Initial Study.

As such, the Draft EIR analyzed potential environmental impacts related to three topical categories: Land Use and Planning, Noise, and Transportation. The Draft EIR identified certain less than significant effects that could result from implementation of the proposed project. No mitigation is required to reduce or avoid such impacts because those impacts would not exceed relevant thresholds of significance.

LAND USE AND PLANNING
Impact. Cause a significant environmental impact due to a conflict with any land use plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect. The main documents guiding development and regulating land uses in the City are the City’s General Plan and Zoning Ordinance. The City recently updated its Land Use Element with an entirely new LUE that guides future development in the City through the year 2040. Approval of the proposed project is the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element, which is considered a policy/planning action and does not include or facilitate any physical improvements. However, Government Code Section 65300.5 requires the various components of a General Plan to be internally consistent and provide a compatible statement of policies.

The City’s new LUE establishes land uses by PlaceTypes throughout the planning area, and the proposed Noise Element presents information related to existing and projected noise contours that could impact land uses. Therefore, a consistency analysis was included in the EIR to demonstrate the project’s consistency with the new LUE. Additionally, analysis will be provided showing the proposed project’s consistency with the City’s Zoning Ordinance. Land use impacts associated with the consistency between the project and City’s General Plan and Zoning Ordinance have been addressed in the EIR and no mitigation is required.

The proposed Noise Element includes policies and strategies to protect sensitive receptors from stationary noise sources and encourage land use compatibility. Strategy No. 1 applies site planning and other design standards to reduce noise impacts, especially within the Founding and Contemporary Neighborhoods, Multifamily Residential—Low and Moderate, and Neighborhood-Serving Centers and Corridors – Low and Moderate PlaceTypes. Policies N 1-1 through N 1-9 integrates noise considerations into the land use planning process to prevent new noise conflicts, requires noise attenuation measures to be incorporated into all development and redevelopment of sensitive receptors, and ensures that project site design and function minimize noise. In addition, any new noise-generating sources would be subject to compliance with Chapter 8.80, Noise (including the amendments proposed as part of the project), which sets exterior and interior noise standards for the various land uses within the City. The proposed project includes amendments to the Noise Ordinance to update the boundaries of the Noise Districts and add Mixed Use as a land use type in existing Table A in Section 8.80.160 and Table C in Section 8.80.170 of the City’s Municipal Code; these amendments would establish exterior and interior noise standards for this land use type and better reflect and be consistent with the recently adopted LUE PlaceTypes.

City of Long Beach Noise Element and Noise Ordinance
CEQA Findings of Fact

For the reasons cited above and as detailed in Table 4.1.3 of the Draft EIR, the proposed project would be consistent with the applicable goals and policies outlined in the City’s General Plan.

Furthermore, the proposed project would be consistent with applicable airport land use plans because development under the proposed Noise Element would be required to evaluate potential noise impacts associated with discretionary development and ensures compatibility with the noise environment under the airport land use plans. Upon approval of the proposed project, these amendments would result in project consistency with the City’s Municipal Code. Additionally, the proposed amendments would ensure consistency between the proposed Noise Element and the City’s Municipal Code. To ensure that the proposed project complies with and would not conflict with or impede the City’s Municipal Code, including the Noise Ordinance, the proposed project includes Project Design Feature 4.1.1, which requires the implementation of a program to amend the Municipal Code to ensure that changes facilitated by the adopted Noise Element are consistent with the Municipal Code. All inconsistencies between the Noise Element and Municipal Code are required to be resolved through text amendments within 36 months following project approval. Therefore, with incorporation of Project Design Feature PDF 4.1.1, the proposed project would be consistent with the City’s General Plan, airport land use plans, and Municipal Code. No mitigation is required.

Impact: Cumulative Land Use and Planning Impacts. As defined in Section 15130 of the State CEQA Guidelines, cumulative impacts are the incremental effects of an individual project when viewed in connection with the effects of past, current, and probable future projects within the cumulative impact area for land use. The cumulative impact area for land use for the proposed project is the planning area.

Several development projects are approved and/or pending within the City. Each of these projects, as well as all proposed discretionary development in the City, would be subject to its own General Plan consistency analysis and would be reviewed for consistency with adopted land use plans and policies. For this reason, cumulative impacts associated with inconsistency of future development with adopted plans and policies would be less than significant.

Implementation of the proposed project would not conflict with applicable land use documents and would achieve consistency with PlaceTypes established by the recently adopted LUE. The proposed project includes amendments to the Noise Ordinance, including updates to the boundaries of the noise districts and amendments to Table A in Section 8.80.160 and Table C in Section 8.80.170 of the City’s Municipal Code, to better reflect and be consistent with PlaceTypes established by the LUE. As such, project implementation would reduce cumulative project impacts related to any inconsistencies with the City’s General Plan. The project would also address potential inconsistencies with the City’s Noise Ordinance (as outlined in Project Design Feature PDF No. 4.1.1), which would reduce cumulative project impacts related to potential Municipal Code inconsistencies to a less than significant level. Further, the proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered a policy/ planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements that would potentially result in cumulatively considerable impacts. Therefore, land use impacts associated with the proposed project would be considered less than cumulatively significant, and no mitigation would be required.

NOISE
Impact: Generation of a substantial temporary or permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the project in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies. The proposed project involves the adoption of the City of Long Beach Noise Element and Noise Ordinance
CEQA Findings of Fact

General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development. The proposed project does not result in any changes to the maximum construction noise criteria or the allowable hours of construction. Construction activities considered under the proposed Noise Element would occur throughout the planning period to the horizon year of 2040. While construction activities associated with future development could result in substantial temporary or periodic increases in ambient noise levels at development sites throughout the City, activities as part of future projects would be subject to compliance with the Noise Ordinance to ensure that noise impacts from construction sources are reduced.

The proposed Noise Element and amendments to the Noise Ordinance also include strategies and policiesthat are intended to protect sensitive receptors from stationary noise sources and encourage land use compatibility. Additionally, the proposed project includes amendments to the Noise Ordinance to better reflect and be consistent with the recently adopted LUE PlaceTypes. Finally, although the proposed project does not change the exterior and interior noise standards for the various land uses, the boundaries of the Noise District have been updated to better align with higher intensity, mixed-use PlaceTypes in the LUE and to add Mixed Use as a land use type in the Noise District tables found in Long Beach Municipal Code Sections 8.80.160 and 8.80.170. Therefore, implementation of the proposed project, which includes no physical development, would not expose persons to noise levels in excess of applicable standards, and impacts would be less than significant.

Future development projects may include the installation or creation of new stationary sources of noise or could include the development of new sensitive land uses in the vicinity of existing noise sources. The proposed Noise Element includes policies and strategies to protect sensitive receptors from stationary noise sources and encourage land use compatibility. In addition, any new noise-generating sources would be subject to compliance with Chapter 8.80, Noise (including the amendments proposed as part of the project), which sets exterior and interior noise standards for the various land uses within the City. The proposed project includes amendments to the Noise Ordinance to update the boundaries of the Noise Districts and add Mixed Use as a land use type in existing Table A in Section 8.80.160 and Table C in Section 8.80.170 of the City’s Municipal Code; these amendments would establish exterior and interior noise standards for this land use type and better reflect and be consistent with the recently adopted LUE PlaceTypes.

Implementation of the proposed project is not anticipated to result in increased railroad operations within the City. However, the TOD PlaceType included in the LUE allows future multi-family developments to be located along the Metro Blue Line fixed rail route. Locating multi-family developments near the light-rail corridor could expose sensitive land uses to operational rail noise. The proposed Noise Element includes policies that would reduce the potential for developments near the light rail corridor to expose sensitive land uses to operational rail noise. The proposed Noise Element includes policies and strategies that would ensure future development projects incorporate site planning and project design strategies to protect sensitive receptors from stationary noise sources in excess of acceptable levels. Therefore, implementation of the proposed project, which includes no physical development, would not expose persons to noise levels in excess of applicable standards, and impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation would be required.

City of Long Beach Noise Element and Noise Ordinance
CEQA Findings of Fact

Finally, potential sources causing a permanent increase in ambient noise include noise resulting from increased traffic on roadways in the planning area. It is projected that traffic volumes on some streets within the City would increase due to the growth envisioned under the recently approved LUE.

This increase in traffic volumes would result in increased traffic noise levels compared to existing conditions. The significance criteria define a significant impact to occur if the project would result in a substantial (3 dBA or greater) permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project. For traffic noise to increase by 3 dBA, traffic volumes would have to double. As noted in Section 4.2.4, Existing Environmental Setting, noise increases of 3 dBA or more are generally considered to be the smallest increases in noise levels readily perceptible in suburban or urban outdoor environments. The Noise and Vibration Impact Analysis (LSA 2019) prepared for the LUE and UDE General Plan Amendment EIR determined that the traffic noise increase under the recently adopted LUE would be up to 2.1 dBA, which is considered less than the threshold of perceptibility for humans (i.e., 3 dBA). Therefore, traffic noise regulated under the proposed project would not be readily perceptible in suburban or urban outdoor environments.

The Draft EIR included detailed future traffic noise contours included in the proposed Noise Element. The noise contours would be used as a guide for establishing a pattern of land uses that minimizes the exposure of community residents to excessive noise. The future noise contours presented in the proposed Noise Element are consistent with assumptions made in the LUE and the Mobility Element. Additionally, the proposed Noise Element would include allowable interior and exterior noise exposure levels from transportation sources for various land uses proposed by the Noise Element. These allowable noise exposure levels from transportation sources are intended to be used as a guide to establish a pattern of land uses that minimizes exposure of residents to excessive noise. Adherence to allowable interior and exterior noise exposure levels from transportation sources identified in Table 3.1 of the Draft EIR would ensure that noise impacts resulting from transportation sources would be less than significant.

This increase in traffic volumes would result in increased traffic noise levels compared to existing conditions. However, the analysis for the LUE and UDE General Plan Amendment EIR determined that traffic noise regulated under the proposed project would not be readily perceptible in suburban or urban outdoor environments. Additionally, Strategy Nos. 6 through 8, included in the proposed Noise Element, are aimed at managing traffic-related noise. Therefore, implementation of the proposed project would not allow the exposure of persons to noise levels in excess of applicable standards, and impacts would be less than significant. No mitigation would be required.

Impact: Generation of excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels. The proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development. However, future construction activities considered by the proposed Noise Element could result in the generation of ground-borne vibration. As such, vibration impacts are described below.

As previously described, common sources of ground-borne vibration and noise include trains and construction activities such as blasting, pile driving, and operating heavy earthmoving equipment.

Typically, the main effect of ground-borne vibration and noise is to cause annoyances for occupants of nearby buildings. Future construction activities could result in the generation of ground-borne vibration.

City of Long Beach Noise Element and Noise Ordinance
CEQA Findings of Fact

However, Chapter 8.80 of the City’s Noise Ordinance would continue to limit the operation of any device that creates vibration, including pile driving, that is above the vibration perception threshold. Any future construction activities would be required to comply with the Noise Ordinance requirements. Therefore, future construction activities would not result in the exposure of sensitive receptors to excessive groundborne vibration or noise levels.

The proposed Noise Element also includes policies and strategies that protect sensitive receptors from vibration in excess of acceptable levels including Strategy No. 12, which minimizes construction noise and vibration levels in residential areas and other locations near noise-sensitive uses where possible.

Therefore, implementation of the proposed project would not expose persons to excessive ground-borne vibration and/or ground-borne noise levels, and impacts would be considered less than significant. No mitigation would be required.

Impact: Expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels within the vicinity of a private airstrip or an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted.

As previously described, aircraft noise in the City of Long Beach is primarily related to aircraft operations at Long Beach Airport, Los Angeles International Airport, and John Wayne Airport. Long Beach Airport is located centrally within the City, approximately 3 miles northeast of downtown.

As stated in Section 16.43.050 of the Municipal Code, it is the goal of the City that Incompatible Property in the vicinity of the Airport shall not be exposed to noise above 65 dBA CNEL. The proposed Noise Element includes Strategy No. 10, which requires measures to minimize the adverse effects of aircraft-related noise. The proposed Noise Element also includes Policy N 10-1, which ensures that new development can be made compatible with the noise environment by using noise/land use compatibility standards and the airport noise contour maps as guides to future planning and development decisions.

Further, the proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would have the potential to expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels. Therefore, the proposed project would not result in the exposure of sensitive receptors to excessive noise levels from aircraft noise sources. No mitigation measures are required.

Impact: Cumulative Noise Impacts. As defined in the State CEQA Guidelines, cumulative impacts are the incremental effects of an individual project when viewed in connection with the effects of past, current, and probable future projects. A cumulative noise or vibration impact would occur if multiple sources of noise and vibration combine to create impacts in close proximity to a sensitive receptor.

Therefore, the cumulative area for noise impacts is the planning area and any sensitive receptors within the planning area. However, as noted above, the proposed project is a policy/planning action and does not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would result in noise or vibration.

Cumulative growth within the City could result in temporary or periodic increases in ambient noise levels at development sites throughout the City. However, construction-related noise would be temporary and would no longer occur once construction of individual future projects is completed. In addition, future construction activities would be subject to compliance with the City’s Noise Ordinance and proposed amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance to ensure that noise impacts from construction sources are reduced. In addition, the proposed Noise Element includes strategies and policies that would reduce construction noise impacts. Strategy No. 12 minimizes construction noise and vibration levels in City of Long Beach Noise Element and Noise Ordinance
CEQA Findings of Fact

residential areas and other locations near noise-sensitive uses where possible. Policies N 12-1 though N 12-7 include measures to reduce construction noise at the sources, reduce noise conflicts, limit the allowable hours for construction activities near sensitive uses, establish noise level standards based on PlaceType as part of the City’s Municipal Code, and encourage construction best practices that reduce noise. Because implementation of the proposed project does not result in any physical construction activities that would produce noise, the proposed project would not be considered to have a cumulatively considerable contribution to the total noise environment in the City.

The proposed project would not create a cumulatively considerable contribution to regional noise conditions as it does not include any physical improvements or development. For traffic noise to increase by 3 dBA, traffic volumes would have to double. Implementation of the proposed project would not impact traffic volumes and would not generate a significant impact under cumulative noise conditions.

Additionally, implementation of the proposed Noise Element strategies and policies would require the City to consider noise and land use compatibility issues when evaluating individual future development proposals. Additionally, the future noise contours and allowable interior and exterior noise exposure levels from transportation sources for various land uses included in the proposed Noise Element as described above are intended to be used as a guide to establish a pattern of land uses that minimizes exposure of residents to excessive noise.

For the reasons stated above, implementation of the proposed project would not result in a substantial cumulative increase in noise. Further, the proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would potentially result in cumulatively considerable impacts. Therefore, noise impacts associated with the proposed project would be considered less than cumulatively significant, and no mitigation would be required.

TRANSPORTATION
Impact: Would the project conflict with program, plan, ordinance or policy addressing the circulation system, including transit, roadway, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities. The proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would result in impacts to traffic. The City of Long Beach General Plan Mobility Element and the Los Angeles County Congestion Management Program (CMP) are applicable to the proposed project.

General Plan Mobility Element. The 2013 Mobility Element focuses on improving the quality of life for Long Beach residents and visitors through transportation and mobility planning. Proposed Noise Element Strategy Nos. 6 through 11 are aimed at managing mobility-related noise. Strategies include minimizing vehicular traffic noise in residential areas and near noise-sensitive land uses; promoting multimodal mobility to reduce noise generated from vehicular traffic; implementing street design and maintenance practices to minimize vehicular noise impacts; minimizing train noise in residential areas and near noise-sensitive land uses; minimizing the adverse effects of aircraft-related noise; and minimizing watercraft noise level impacts to residential areas and in other locations near noise-sensitive uses, where possible. These strategies and their associated policies further the goals of the Mobility Element.

City of Long Beach Noise Element and Noise Ordinance
CEQA Findings of Fact

Therefore, the proposed Noise Element would be consistent with the overall intent of the City’s General Plan Mobility Element.

The proposed project involves the adoption of the proposed General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance. Proposed amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance are intended to create consistency between the existing Noise Ordinance and the proposed Noise Element.

Additionally, the amendments to the Noise Ordinance would regulate noise and implement the policies of the Noise Element. As such, proposed amendments to the Noise Ordinance would not conflict with the Mobility Element because they are consistent with the intent of the proposed Noise Element.

It is projected that traffic volumes on some streets within the City would increase due to the growth envisioned under the recently approved LUE. This increase in traffic volumes would result in increased traffic and associated noise levels compared to existing conditions. The noise contours would be used as a guide for establishing a pattern of land uses that minimizes the exposure of community residents to excessive noise. The future noise contours presented in the proposed Noise Element are consistent with assumptions made in the LUE and the Mobility Element. Additionally, the proposed Noise Element includes allowable interior and exterior noise levels from transportation sources for various land uses. These allowable noise exposure levels from transportation sources are intended to be used as a guide to establish a pattern of land uses that minimizes exposure of residents to excessive noise. Overall, the proposed Noise Element is consistent with assumptions made in, and the intent of, the Mobility Element.

Congestion Management Program. As stated previously, the CMP is the program by which Los Angeles County agencies have agreed to monitor and report on the status of regional roadways. The latest CMP (Metro 2010) states that a significant impact would occur if intersection LOS with the project is LOS F and the proposed project causes a 0.02 or greater increase in volume-to-capacity ratio. The proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would result in an increase in traffic or LOS conditions. Since implementation of the project would not result in increases in volume-to-capacity ratio, the proposed project would not result in significant impacts with respect to the CMP. Therefore, implementation of the proposed project would not conflict with the Los Angeles County CMP.

Therefore, implementation of the proposed project would not conflict with the General Plan Mobility Element or Los Angeles County CMP. As a result, the proposed project would not conflict with any program, plan, ordinance or policy addressing the circulation system, including transit, roadway, bicycle, and pedestrian facilities. Impacts would be less than significant, and no mitigation is required.

Impact: Cumulative Transportation Impacts. As defined in Section 15130 of the State CEQA Guidelines, cumulative impacts are the incremental effects of an individual project when viewed in connection with the effects of past, current, and probable future projects within the cumulative impact area for transportation. The cumulative impact area for transportation for the proposed project is the planning area. Several development projects are approved and/or pending within the City. Each of these projects, as well as all proposed discretionary development in the City, would be subject to its own transportation consistency analysis and would be reviewed for consistency with adopted programs, plans, ordinances or policies addressing the circulation system. For this reason, cumulative impacts associated City of Long Beach Noise Element and Noise Ordinance
CEQA Findings of Fact

with inconsistency of future development with adopted programs, plans, ordinances, or policies addressing the circulation system would be less than significant. Further, the proposed project involves the adoption of the General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance, which are considered a policy/planning actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development that would potentially result in cumulatively considerable impacts. Therefore, transportation impacts associated with the proposed project would be considered less than cumulatively significant, and no mitigation would be required.

C. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS WHICH WERE DETERMINED TO BE LESS THAN

SIGNIFICANT WITH MITIGATION
The Final EIR determined that all potential impacts were considered less than significant, and no mitigation is required.

D. ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS WHICH WERE DETERMINED TO BE SIGNIFICANT AND

UNAVOIDABLE
The Final EIR determined that all potential impacts were considered less than significant, and no mitigation is required. As a result, there would be no significant and unavoidable impacts with implementation of the proposed project.

III. IRREVERSIBLE ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGES
Section 15126.2(c) of the State CEQA Guidelines requires that an EIR discuss “any significant irreversible environmental changes which would be involved in the proposed action should it be implemented.” Generally, a project would result in significant irreversible environmental changes if one of the following scenarios is involved:
• The project would involve a large commitment of nonrenewable resources. • Irreversible damage can result from environmental accidents associated with the project. • The proposed consumption of resources is not justified (e.g., the project results in the wasteful use of energy).

EIR Section 6.4, in Chapter 6.0, Other CEQA Considerations, evaluates the potential for implementation of the proposed project to result in significant irreversible changes in the environment.

The proposed General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance are considered planning/policy actions and do not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development. The commitment of limited, slowly renewable, and nonrenewable resources required for construction and operation of future development would limit the availability of these resources for future generations or for other uses during the life of the project. However, the proposed project would not result in an irreversible commitment of these resources, as the proposed project would not, in itself, result in any direct physical improvements or development. Therefore, the proposed project would not result in a commitment of limited, slowly renewable, and nonrenewable resources, and thus, would not result in significant irreversible changes.

City of Long Beach Noise Element and Noise Ordinance
CEQA Findings of Fact

IV. GROWTH-INDUCING IMPACTS AND COMMITMENT OF RESOURCES Sections 15126(d) and 15126.2(e) of the State CEQA Guidelinesrequire that an EIR analyze growth inducing impacts and state that an EIR should discuss the ways in which the proposed project could foster economic or population growth or construction of additional housing, either directly or indirectly, in the surrounding environment. State CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.2(d) also requires a discussion of the characteristics of projects that may encourage and facilitate other activities that could significantly affect the environment, either individually or cumulatively. A project that meets any of these criteria may be considered growth-inducing. The potential growth-inducing impacts associated with the proposed project are evaluated below. It should be noted that growth-inducing effects are not to be construed as necessarily beneficial, detrimental, or of little significance to the environment (State CEQA Guidelines, Section 15126.2(d)). This issue is presented to provide additional information on ways in which this project could contribute to significant changes in the environment beyond the direct consequences of implementing the proposed project as described in earlier sections of this Draft EIR.

Approval of the proposed General Plan Noise Element and amendments to the City’s Noise Ordinance is considered a planning/policy action and does not include or facilitate any physical improvements or development. The proposed Noise Element includes strategies and policies intended to provide protection for land uses, as identified in the LUE, from excessive noise and vibration sources, as well as to implement the vision of a healthy, livable noise environment in the City. The Noise Ordinance regulates the noise environment in the City and implements the policies of the proposed Noise Element.

The proposed project would not, in itself, facilitate or allow any physical improvements or development that would induce population, housing, or employment growth. Implementation of the proposed project would not remove obstacles to growth or foster growth because the Noise Element and Noise Ordinance do not facilitate or allow physical development. Additionally, the proposed project does not include any policies or regulations which would directly foster economic growth and would not involve any characteristics that could encourage and facilitate other activities that could significantly affect the environment. For the reasons stated above, the proposed project is not considered to be growth-inducing, and therefore, the proposed project would not result in any growth-inducing impacts.

V. ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT
CEQA requires that an EIR describe a reasonable range of alternatives to the proposed project or to its location that could feasibly attain most of the basic project objectives but would avoid or substantially lessen any of the significant effects, and that it evaluate the comparative merits of each of the alternatives. Section 15126.6(b) of the State CEQA Guidelines states that the “discussion of alternatives shall focus on alternatives to the project or its location which are capable of avoiding or substantially lessening any significant effects of the project, even if these alternatives would impede to some degree the attainment of the project objectives or would be more costly.” The following section discusses the project alternatives that were considered and analyzed in the EIR and summarizes the consistency of these alternatives with the objectives of the proposed project.

The Final EIR identified one alternative as follows:

1. Alternative 1: No Project Alternative
City of Long Beach Noise Element and Noise Ordinance
CEQA Findings of Fact

1. No Project Alternative
Description: This alternative would involve no amendments to the City of Long Beach’s (City) General Plan or the Long Beach Municipal Code Noise Ordinance. The existing General Plan Noise Element (1975) and the current Noise Ordinance would continue to guide and regulate the City’s noise environment.

Environmental Effects: The No Project Alternative would allow for noise regulation within the planning area to remain unchanged, consistent with the existing Noise Element and Noise Ordinance.

The No Project Alternative would not include updates to the Noise Element or Noise Ordinance as proposed under the project. As such, the No Project Alternative would result in an inconsistency between the existing Noise Element, adopted in 1975, and the Land Use Element, updated and adopted in 2019, which is the guiding land use document for development within the City. Therefore, the No Project Alternative would be inconsistent with an existing land use plan for the planning area. Land use and planning impacts would be greater under the No Project Alternative as compared to the proposed project. Land use impacts associated with the proposed project were determined to be less than significant. Under the No Project Alternative, impacts related to land use would be greater than those identified for the proposed project.

The No Project Alternative would allow for noise regulation within the planning area to remain unchanged, consistent with the existing Noise Element and Noise Ordinance. Sources of noise within the planning area would remain substantially similar to existing conditions or incrementally increase as growth occurs, with the primary source remaining vehicle roadway noise. Under the No Project Alternative, short-term and long-term noise impacts would remain unchanged as analyzed under the proposed project. Since development of future projects is not controlled by the proposed project or the No Project Alternative, construction noise would continue to be produced as new projects are developed.

Construction activities as part of future projects would continue to have the potential to adversely affect nearby noise-sensitive land uses, including residences, schools, hospitals, churches, and similar uses that are sensitive to noise. However, strategies and policies aimed at reducing construction noise impacts, protecting sensitive receptors from stationary noise sources, managing traffic-related noise, protecting sensitive receptors from vibration in excess of acceptable levels, and minimizing the adverse effects of aircraft-related noise as proposed under the project, would not exist under the No Project Alternative.

Noise impacts associated with the proposed project were determined to be less than significant. Under the No Project Alternative, impacts related to noise would be similar to, although slightly greater than, those identified for the proposed project because new strategies and policies aimed at minimizing noise impacts would not be adopted.

The No Project Alternative would allow for noise regulation within the planning area to remain unchanged, consistent with the existing Noise Element and Noise Ordinance. It is projected that traffic volumes on some streets within the City would increase due to the growth envisioned under the recently adopted LUE. This increase in traffic volumes would result in increased traffic and associated noise levels compared to existing conditions, similar to the proposed project. Transportation impacts associated with the proposed project were determined to be less than significant. Under the No Project Alternative, impacts related to transportation would be similar to those identified for the proposed project.

Ability to Achieve Project Objectives: Under the No Project Alternative, the No Project Alternative would not achieve any of the eight Project Objectives. Because the No Project Alternative City of Long Beach Noise Element and Noise Ordinance
CEQA Findings of Fact

would not include the various strategies and policies proposed by the Noise Element, this alternative would not achieve any of the following Project Objectives: help the City achieve its goal of creating a healthy noise environment in Long Beach (Project Objective 1); balance business practices within dynamic, active, and engaging areas to promote activity, including special events, while respecting adjacent sensitive uses (Project Objective 2); create allowances associated with noise so that Long Beach can thrive as a dynamic, growing city (Project Objective 3); limit the exposure of the community to excessive noise levels in noise-sensitive areas and at noise-sensitive times of day (Project Objective 4); strive for a more equitable distribution of noise (Project Objective 5); apply site planning, building design, street design, and other design strategies to reduce noise impacts (Project Objective 6); actively enhance the regulation and management of noise to improve procedures and minimize noise impacts (Project Objective 7); nor would it generally maintain the current allowable interior and exterior noise thresholds as identified in the City Municipal Code Chapter 8.80, while better accommodating mixed land uses as contemplated by the recently updated General Plan LUE (Project Objective 8). Therefore, as compared to the proposed project, the No Project Alternative would not meet any of the project objectives.

Findings: The City Council finds, pursuant to PRC Section 21081(a)(3), that specific legal, economic, social, technical, or other considerations make the No Project Alternative identified in the Final EIR infeasible.

Facts in Support of the Finding: As described in this section and in Section 5.3.4, of the Draft EIR, the No Project Alternative has greater land use impacts than the proposed project because, without amendments to the Noise Ordinance proposed as part of this project, the existing Noise Ordinance would be inconsistent with land use regulation envisioned under the LUE and would conflict with State recommendations provided by the State Office of the Attorney General related to the update of General Plans. Additionally, the No Project Alternative has slightly greater noise impacts than the proposed project because new strategies and policies aimed at minimizing noise impacts would not be adopted. Overall, the No Project Alternative would have slightly greater impacts as compared to the proposed project.

Additionally, the No Project Alternative would not achieve any of the eight Project Objectives.

With the exception of the No Project Alternative, the Environmentally Superior Alternative would be the proposed project, which results in fewer impacts than the No Project Alternative and meets all eight of the project objectives. As a result, the No Project Alternative is less desirable to the City than the proposed project and is considered to be infeasible.

VI. GENERAL FINDINGS

1. The plans for the project have been prepared and analyzed so as to provide for public involvement in the planning and CEQA processes.

2. To the degree that any impacts described in the Final EIR are perceived to have a less than significant effect on the environment or that such impacts appear ambiguous as to their effect on the environment as discussed in the Final EIR, the City has responded to key environmental issues to reduce or minimize potential environmental effects of the proposed project to the maximum extent feasible.

City of Long Beach Noise Element and Noise Ordinance
CEQA Findings of Fact

3. Comments regarding the Draft EIR received during the public review period have been adequately responded to in written Responses to Comments attached to the Final EIR. There are no significant effects described in the Final EIR. No mitigation measures are required.

4. The analysis of the environmental effects contained in the Final EIR represents the independent judgment and analysis of the City.

EWM:ag A23-01319 (5/17/2023) 01527560.docx 1
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27 28 OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY DAWN MCINTOSH, City Attorney 411 West Ocean Boulevard, 9th Floor Long Beach, CA 90802-4664 RESOLUTION NO.

A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY

OF LONG BEACH REPLACING THE CURRENT NOISE

ELEMENT WITH THE UPDATED NOISE ELEMENT OF THE

LONG BEACH GENERAL PLAN
The City Council of the City of Long Beach resolves as follows:

Section 1. The City Council does hereby find, determine and declare:

A. In 1971, the California legislature mandated that a Noise Element be included as part of the General Plan for every City and County in the State due to potential impacts associated with elevated noise and vibration and the effects on citizens within its cities.

B. The Long Beach General Plan Noise Element was first adopted in 1975, and the Noise Ordinance was last comprehensively updated in 1977 based on the Noise Element. Since then, the City’s physical makeup, population and regional context and the regulatory guidance around noise have changed significantly. The city has grown and evolved a great deal since the 1970’s.

C. The City Council desires to adopt the updated Noise Element of the Long Beach General Plan dated October 2022 which is included as Attachment B to the June 6, 2023 staff report to the City Council which is incorporated herein by this reference as though set forth herein in full.

D. The Planning Commission held a public hearing on March 2, 2023, on the proposed updated Noise Element of the Long Beach General Plan. At that hearing, the Planning Commission gave full consideration to all pertinent facts, information, proposals, environmental documentation and recommendations respecting the proposed updated Noise Element of the Long Beach General Plan, and to the views EWM:ag A23-01319 (5/17/2023) 01527560.docx 2
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27 28 OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY DAWN MCINTOSH, City Attorney 411 West Ocean Boulevard, 9th Floor Long Beach, CA 90802-4664 expressed at the public hearing, and afforded full opportunity for public input and participation.

E. Following receipt and consideration of all appropriate environmental documentation, full hearings and deliberation, the Planning Commission voted on March 2, 2023, to recommend approval of the updated Noise Element and Ordinance of the Long Beach General Plan and further directed that said recommendation be forwarded to the City Council for its consideration.

F. That on June 6, 2023, the City Council conducted a duly noticed public hearing at which time full consideration was given to all pertinent facts, information, proposals, environmental documentation and recommendations respecting the proposed updated Noise Element of the General Plan, and to the views expressed at the public hearing, and afforded full opportunity for public input and participation.

G. Following receipt and consideration of all appropriate environmental documentation, full hearings and deliberation, the City Council concurs with the recommendations of the Planning Commission. The City Council hereby approves, adopts and certifies the environmental documentation, adopts the new Noise Element of the General Plan together with the Findings for the Noise Element General Plan Amendment dated March 2, 2023 (included as Attachment E to the June 6, 2023 staff report to the City Council) which is incorporated herein by this reference as though set forth herein in full.

Section 2. This resolution shall take effect immediately upon its adoption by the City Council, and the City Clerk shall certify the vote adopting this resolution. ///
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27 28 OFFICE OF THE CITY ATTORNEY DAWN MCINTOSH, City Attorney 411 West Ocean Boulevard, 9th Floor Long Beach, CA 90802-4664 I hereby certify that the foregoing resolution was adopted by the City Council of the City of Long Beach at its meeting of __________________, 2023, by the following vote:

Ayes: Councilmembers:

Noes: Councilmembers:

Absent: Councilmembers:

City Clerk
Attachment A

element
City of Long Beach General Plan
DRAFT October 2022
creating livable environments
NOISE
2040
Attachment B
“Each celestial body, in fact each and
every atom, produces a particular
sound on account of its movement,
its rhythm or vibration. All these
sounds and vibrations form a universal
harmony in which each element, while
having it’s own function and character,
contributes to the whole.”
Pythagoras
Greek Philosopher
Noise
Adopted by the Long Beach City Council on (xx.xx.xxxx)
Processed by Long Beach Development Services
Assisted by RRM Design Group and LSA Associates.
element
City of Long Beach General Plan
DRAFT October 2022
NOISE

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Mayor and City Council
Honorable Mayor Robert Garcia
Mary Zendejas, Councilmember, 1st District
Cindy Allen, Councilmember, 2nd District
Suzie Price, Councilmember, 3rd District
Daryl Supernaw, Councilmember, 4th District
Stacy Mungo, Councilmember, 5th District
Suely Saro, Councilmember, 6th District
Roberto Uranga, Councilmember, 7th District
Al Austin, Councilmember, 8th District
Vice Mayor Rex Richardson, Councilmember, 9th District
Office of the City Manager
Tom Modica, City Manager
Linda F. Tatum, Assistant City Manager
City of Long Beach Development Planning Commission
Dr. Joni Ricks-Oddie, Chair
Erick Verduzco-Vega, Vice Chair
Alvaro Castillo
Jane Templin
Josh LaFarga
Mark Christoffels
Richard Lewis
City of Long Beach Development Services Staff
Christopher Koontz, AICP, Acting Director
Alison Spindler, AICP, Advance Planning Officer
Andréa Urbas, AICP CEP CUD, Acting Advance Planning Officer Megan Covarrubias, Planner
Patricia A. Diefenderfer, AICP, Advance Planning Officer (former) Jennifer Ly, Planner (former)
Gabriel Barrerras, Senior Contract Planner (former)
table of CONTENTS
1 Vision: A City That Thrives
Introduction.....................................................................................................................................................................3 2 Introduction: What is a Noise Element?
Introduction......................................................................................................................................................................7 What is a Noise Element? ............................................................................................................................................7 Regulatory Setting..........................................................................................................................................................10 Community Engagement ............................................................................................................................................15 Next Bold Moves: Vision in Motion ..........................................................................................................................16 3 Context: Understanding the Noise Environment
Our Region. Our City. ....................................................................................................................................................19 Noise Sources ..................................................................................................................................................................20 Vibration Sources ...........................................................................................................................................................25 4 Noise Fundamentals: Characteristics of Sound
Characteristics of Sound .............................................................................................................................................31 5 Noise Plan: Creating Livable Environments
Placetype Characteristics and Land Use Compatibility ...................................................................................39 Mobility .............................................................................................................................................................................43 Construction ...................................................................................................................................................................51 Special Events .................................................................................................................................................................52 Environmental Justice and Social Equity ..............................................................................................................53 Noise Management ......................................................................................................................................................54 6 Administration + Implementation: Maintaining the Noise Element Administration ...............................................................................................................................................................59 Implementation .............................................................................................................................................................59 A Appendix
Future Traffic Noise Contours (2040)......................................................................................................................75 This page intentionally left blank.
table of TABLES
Tables
Table N-1: Construction Vibration Damage Criteria.......................................................................................................................11 Table N-2: Land Use Compatibility Guidelines for Noise Exposure ..........................................................................................13 Table N-3: Definitions of Acoustical Terms........................................................................................................................................32 Table N-4: Common Sound Levels and Their Noise Sources ......................................................................................................36 Table N-5: Allowable Noise Exposure from Transportation Sources .......................................................................................46 Table N-6: Implementation Matrix ......................................................................................................................................................60 Figures
Figure N-1: Existing Major Noise Sources .........................................................................................................................................22 Figure N-2: Long Beach PlaceTypes-Northern (Land Use Element) ........................................................................................40 Figure N-3: Long Beach PlaceTypes-Southern (Land Use Element) ........................................................................................41 Figure N-4: Future Traffic Noise Contours (2040) ............................................................................................................................45 table of FIGURES
This page intentionally left blank.

Vision 1
A City That Thrives
“Just as we share the air we breathe, we are
submerged in a sea of shared sound. We are
all connected by the vibrations we make as
we use energy in daily life.”
Bruce Odland and Sam Auinger
Reflections on the Sonic Commons, a Special
Section of the Leonardo Music Journal
1 Vision
A City That Thrives
Introduction 3
» A Healthy, Livable Community ............................................ 3 » Equitable Distribution of Noise .......................................... 4 » Minimizing Exposure to Excessive Noise ......................... 4 » Allowances for Elements Necessary for a
Dynamic, Growing City........................................................... 4 Vision | A City That Thrives 3
1Vision
DRAFT October 2022
Long Beach: A vibrant, growing community
Introduction
The City of Long Beach has evolved into a vibrant urban community, a home for residents and enterprise alike. Long Beach has become a metropolitan community by its own
right—a home to a thriving port, international airport, and transit lines. Additionally, Long Beach is a destination for nightlife, festivals, and concerts. As Long Beach transitions from a Los Angeles suburb to a young, spirited stand-alone city, the soundscape will inevitably also transition.

Our vision for Long Beach includes an urban environment with all the amenities of life in a city while maintaining healthy, livable neighborhoods for all residents. Balancing the needs of transit, industry, entertainment, and business with the livelihood of all residents, is essential for a growing city. These aspects are part of the daily lives of residents and visitors in Long Beach. An ambient level of noise is to be expected as part of life in an urban environment; the key will be minimizing noise events and striving for equality throughout all neighborhoods of Long Beach. Desired
goals of the Noise Element include: A healthy, livable
community, equitable distribution of noise, minimizing
exposures to excessive noise, and allowances for elements necessary for a dynamic, growing city.

A Healthy, Livable Community
A base level of noise as part of life in an urban environment can be normal and healthy. Noise events that disturb the peace of residents can lead to negative health outcomes; therefore, this Noise Element should prioritize the health and well-being of City residents and visitors.
4 Vision
1 Noise Element | City of Long Beach
DRAFT October 2022
Downtown Long Beach at night
Equitable Distribution of Noise
Urban noise may be more likely to occur in some parts of Long Beach than others. An equitable distribution of noise is a pillar of environmental justice, and as such, this Noise Element should prioritize the well being of all residents by ensuring equitable spatial distribution of potential noise impacts.

Minimizing Exposures to Excessive Noise
Though an ambient level of noise is to be expected as
part of daily life in Long Beach, excessive noise events can be disruptive and unwelcomed. Frequent occurrences
of excessive noise events can lead to negative health
outcomes, and should be minimized to the extent feasible.

A main purpose of the Noise Element is to limit exposure of the community to excessive noise levels in noise-sensitive areas and at noise-sensitive times of day.

Allowances for Elements Necessary for a
Dynamic, Growing City
Many of the elements that make Long Beach such an
exciting place to live also contribute to urban noise. Long Beach is a desirable place to live due to its many amenities including availability of transportation and wide-range of entertainment. Buses, cars, airplanes, ships, and light rail as well as nightlife, concerts, and festivals are all part of the urban fabric of Long Beach. Allowing for these elements while minimizing their impact is a priority of the Noise Element.

Introduction
What is a Noise Element?
2 “Sound is the vocabulary of nature.”
Pierre Schaeffer
French Composer
Introduction
What is a Noise Element?
2 Introduction 7
What is a Noise Element? 7
» Relationship to Other Elements....................................................................8 » State Requirements for Noise Elements ....................................................9 » Document Organization ..................................................................................9 Regulatory Setting 10
» Federal Regulations........................................................................................... 10 » State Regulations................................................................................................11 » Municipal Code ...................................................................................................15 Community Engagement 15
Next Bold Moves: Vision in Motion 16
» Communication ..................................................................................................16 » Design.....................................................................................................................16 » Technology ...........................................................................................................16 Introduction | What is a Noise Element? 7
2Introduction
DRAFT October 2022
Introduction
Noise surrounds us; it is a constant presence in urban life. A certain level of noise in a community can be indicative of a healthy, active neighborhood. Noise from busy shops and restaurants, children playing, and public transportation are all signs of a thriving environment. While technical in nature, noise is often interpreted subjectively. Certain types of noise are commonly perceived as negative, such as busy transportation corridors, construction zones,
and landscaping activities. However, in the context of a dynamic neighborhood, these noises may be perceived as
less obtrusive. In addition, some development goals, such as infill, may create acceptably higher levels of noise.

The overall objective of the Noise Element is to create and maintain a healthy noise environment in Long Beach.

Specific goals of the Noise Element include: striving for a more equitable distribution of noise, limiting the exposure of the community to excessive noise levels in noisesensitive areas and at noise-sensitive times of day, and creating allowances for Long Beach to thrive as a dynamic, growing city.

What is a Noise Element?
Due to potential impacts associated with elevated noise and vibration impacts and the effects on citizens within its cities, the California legislature in 1972 mandated that a noise element be included as part of city and county
general plans. The current State of California General Plan Guidelines provides the specific requirements for a noise element (2017).

The Noise Element is a mandatory element of the City of Long Beach General Plan, and sets forth policies regarding noise and land use throughout the City. The Noise Element was last updated in 1975, and was implemented through
a 1977 noise ordinance. Since that time, the City’s physical makeup, population, regional context, and the regulatory guidance around noise have changed significantly.

Downtown Long Beach skyline
8 Introduction
2 Noise Element | City of Long Beach
DRAFT October 2022
» Land Use—A key objective of the Noise Element is to
provide noise exposure information for implementation
of the Land Use Element. When integrated with
the Noise Element, the Land Use Element will show
acceptable land uses in relation to existing and projected noise contours. Section 65302(f) states that: “The noise contours shall be used as a guide for establishing
a pattern of land uses in the land use element that
minimizes the exposure of community residents to
excessive noise.”
» Housing—The Housing Element considers the provision
of adequate sites for new housing and standards for
housing stock. Since residential land use is among the
most noise sensitive, the noise exposure information
provided in the Noise Element must be considered
when planning the location of new housing. Also, state
law requires special noise insulation of new multifamily dwellings constructed within the 60 dB (CNEL or Ldn)
noise exposure contour. This requirement may influence
the location and cost of this housing type. In some cases, the noise environment may be a constraint on housing
opportunities.
» Mobility—The circulation system must be correlated
with the Land use Element and is one of the major
sources of noise. Noise exposure will thus be a decisive factor in the location and design of new transportation facilities and the possible mitigation of noise from
existing facilities in relation to existing and planned land uses. The local planning agency may wish to review the circulation and land use elements simultaneously to assess their compatibility with the noise element.
» Open Space—Excessive noise can adversely affect the
enjoyment of recreational pursuits in designated open
space. Thus, noise exposure levels should be considered when planning for this kind of open space use.

Conversely, open space can be used to buffer sensitive
land uses from noise sources through the use of
setbacks and landscaping. Open space designation can
also effectively exclude other land uses from excessively noisy areas.
» Urban Design—Urban design techniques can be
employed to mitigate noise impacts. Strategies such
as creative incorporation of noise attenuation methods
can be effective in accomplishing both urban design
goals as well as noise mitigation goals. Additionally, the Urban Design Element utilizes a differentiated approach for neighborhoods of Long Beach, complementing that
of this element.

Relationship to Other Elements
Additionally, state law mandates that the Noise Element be consistent with all other General Plan Elements. Policies and strategies in the Noise Element are intended to
provide protection for land uses, as identified in the Land Use Element, from excessive noise. The Noise Element
identifies potential and anticipated noise sources and
establishes programs to avoid or mitigate noise impacts.

All policies and strategies established in the Noise
Element are designed to support the vision established in Chapter 1.

The Noise Element is related to other mandated elements, including Land Use, Housing, Circulation, and Open Space.

Recognition of the interrelationship of noise and these four other mandated elements is necessary in order to prepare an integrated general plan. In addition, the Noise Element is related to policies in the Urban Design Element, an optional element under state law. The relationship between noise and these elements is briefly discussed below.

Long Beach General Plan 2040 Land Use Element
Introduction | What is a Noise Element? 9
2Introduction
DRAFT October 2022
Document Organization
The chapters of the Noise Element are organized by topic as follows:

1. Vision
» This chapter discusses the overall vision of the
Noise Element.

2. Introduction: What is a Noise Element?
» This chapter discusses the function of a noise
element and its role within other planning and
regulatory frameworks and the community
engagement involved in shaping this element.

It concludes with a discussion of concepts
important for implementing the vision of the
element.

3. Context: Understanding the Noise Environment
» This chapter discusses the context and sources of
noise and vibration in the City of Long Beach.

4. Noise Fundamentals: Characteristics of Sound
» This chapter details the technical aspects of how
noise is measured and its impact on human
health.

5. Noise Plan: Creating Livable Environments
» This chapter contains the strategies and policies
that implement the vision of the Noise Element.

Topics include land use compatibility, mobility,
construction, special events, environmental
justice and noise management.

6. Administration + Implementation: Maintaining
the Noise Environment
» This chapter describes the tools for administering
and implementing the Noise Element.

A. Appendix
» Detailed information on modeled future traffic
noise contours (2040) may be found here.

The upcoming sections discuss the many ways noise is
regulated and planned for within the City of Long Beach.

The primary tools for regulation are this Noise Element and the Long Beach Municipal Code Noise Ordinance. Beyond
the local level, different types of noise are regulated by several federal and state organizations and policy
frameworks.

State Requirements for Noise Elements
The State of California’s Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (OPR), under California Government Code 65303, allows a city or county to adopt “any other elements or address any other subjects, which, in the judgement of
the legislative body, relate to the physical development of the county or city.” Once adopted, this Noise Element will carry the same legal weight as any of the seven mandatory elements and will be consistent to all the other elements, as required by §65300.5.

OPR also states: “The noise element of the general plan provides a basis for comprehensive local programs to
control and abate environmental noise and to protect
residents from excessive exposure. The fundamental goals of the noise element are:
» To provide sufficient information concerning the
community noise environment so that noise may
be effectively considered in the land use planning
process. In so doing, the necessary groundwork will
have been developed so that a community noise
ordinance may be utilized to resolve noise complaints.
» To develop strategies for abating excessive noise
exposure through cost-effective mitigating measures
in combination with zoning, as appropriate, to avoid
incompatible land uses.
» To protect those existing regions of the planning area whose noise environments are deemed acceptable
and also those locations throughout the community
deemed “noise sensitive.”
» To utilize the definition of the community noise
environment in the form of CNEL or Ldn noise
contours as provided in the noise element for local
compliance with the State Noise Insulation Standards.

These standards require specified levels of outdoor
to indoor noise reduction for new multifamily
residential constructions in areas where the outdoor
noise exposure exceeds CNEL (or Ldn) 60 dB.”
10 Introduction
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DRAFT October 2022
In addition to the vibration standards included in the
FTA Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment for
ground-borne vibration impacts on human annoyance
are shown below, the criteria for potential damage from ground-borne vibration and noise are based on the
maximum levels for a single event. Table N-1 lists the
potential vibration building damage criteria associated with construction activities, as suggested in the Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment. FTA guidelines
show that a vibration level of up to 102 VdB (equivalent to

0.5 in/sec in PPV) is considered safe for buildings consisting of reinforced concrete, steel, or timber (no plaster), and would not result in any construction vibration damage. For a nonengineered (those not designed by an engineer or
architect) timber and masonry building, the construction building vibration damage criterion is 94 VdB (0.2 in/sec in PPV). This information is current as of the time of writing of the element, however the Federal Transit Administrations (FTA) Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment is
updated periodically. We recommend referencing the most current version available.

REGULATORY SETTING
Federal Regulations
Long Beach does not typically rely on any specific federal noise regulations given that the State level requirements, specifically the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and the City’s Noise Element and Municipal Code Noise
Ordinance provide more specific and restrictive regulations related to noise and vibration impacts. However, the
following information is provided for reference and may be used when local criteria are not established.

Federal Railroad and Federal Transit
Administrations
The guidelines in the Federal Transit Administrations (FTA) Transit Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment (2018) general assessment establishes thresholds for construction noise identified as a 1-hour noise level of 90 dBA Leq for residential uses during daytime hours and a 1-hour noise level of
100 dBA Leq for commercial and industrial uses. This provides reasonable criteria for assessing construction noise impacts based on the potential for adverse community reaction
when the noise thresholds are exceeded.

Approximate threshold of perception
for many humans. Low-frequency sound
usually inaudible; mid-frequency sound
excessive for quiet sleeping areas.

Approximate dividing line between
barely perceptible and distinctly
perceptible. Many people find transit
vibration at this level annoying.

Low-frequency noise acceptable for
sleeping areas; mid-frequency noise
annoying in most quiet occupied areas.
10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80
65 75
85 Vibration Velocity Level (VdB)
Noise Level (dBA)
Vibration acceptable only
if there are an infrequent
number of events per
day. Low-frequecy noise
annoying for sleeping
areas; mid-frequency
noise annoying even for
infrequent events with
institutional land uses such
as schools and churches.

Human Response to Different Levels of Ground-Borne Noise and Vibration Introduction | What is a Noise Element? 11
2Introduction
DRAFT October 2022
Table N-1: Construction Vibration Damage Criteria
Building Category PPV (in/
sec)
Approximate LV
(VdB)1
Reinforced concrete, steel,
or timber (no plaster) 0.50 102
Engineered concrete and
masonry (no plaster) 0.30 98
Non-engineered timber
and masonry 0.20 94
Buildings extremely
susceptible to vibration
damage

0.12 90
Source: Table 7-5, Transit Noise and Vibration Impact
Assessment (FTA 2018).
1 RMS VdB re 1 µin/sec.
µin/sec = microinches per second
FTA = Federal Transit Administration
in/sec = inches per second
LV = velocity in decibels
PPV = peak particle velocity
RMS = root-mean-square
VdB = vibration velocity in decibels
Environmental Protection Agency
In 1972 Congress enacted the Noise Control Act. This act authorized the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to publish descriptive data on the effects of noise and establish appropriate levels of sound. The document Information
on Levels of Environmental Noise Requisite to Protect Public Health and Welfare With an Adequate Margin of Safety (EPA 1974) established that noise levels less than or equal to 45 dBA would not interfere with indoor activities or cause annoyance. Thus, an interior noise level of 45 dBA CNEL or less is often used to assure exterior façades will provide adequate noise reduction.

International Building Code
The International Building Code (IBC) (ICC 2015) has been adopted and used as a standard code throughout most
of the United States. Within the IBC, standards for both reference or laboratory ratings as well as field measured rating requirements are identified to assure interior noise environment thresholds are met. There are two specific
class ratings: (1) STC or Sound Transmission Class and (2) IIC or Impact Insulation Class. The STC rating is often used for room-to-room assemblies and focuses more on airborne
noise impacts such as radio, television, and human speech.

The IIC rating is often used for floor/ceiling assemblies to focus on structure-borne noise such as footfall or objects being dropped. The IBC specifies that a minimum STC or
IIC rating of 50 is desired to provide a comfortable living environment.

State Regulations
State of California Noise Control Act
In 1975, the State of California established its own Noise Control Act located in Division 28 of the State’s Health and Safety Code. Chapter 6, Assistance to Local Agencies, provides direction on how the state will assist each local agency in establishing local ordinances and policies, as expected below.

Sound
Transmission
Class (STC):

Airborne noise.

Impact
Insulation Class
(IIC): Structureborne noise.

Two class ratings help to measure interior noise
thresholds.
12 Introduction
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Chapter 6. Assistance to Local Agencies
46060. It is the purpose of this chapter to encourage the enactment and enforcement of local ordinances in those
areas which are most properly the responsibility of local government. It is further the purpose to insure that the state is of maximum assistance to local agencies in the discharge of those responsibilities, furnishing technical and legal expertise to assist local agencies in the enactment and enforcement of meaningful and technically sufficient noise abatement measures.
46061. The office shall provide technical assistance to local agencies in combating noise pollution. Such assistance shall include but not be limited to:

G. Advice concerning methods of noise abatement and
control.

H. Advice on training of noise control personnel.

I. Advice on selection and operation of noise abatement equipment.
46062. The office shall provide assistance to local agencies in the preparation of model ordinances to control and abate noise. Such ordinances shall be developed in consultation with the Attorney General and with representatives of local agencies, including the County Supervisors Association
of California and the League of California Cities. Any local agency which adopts any noise control ordinance shall
promptly furnish a copy to the office.

State of California Building Code
The State of California’s noise insulation standards are codified in the California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 24, Building Standards Administrative Code, Part 2, California Building Code. These noise standards are applied to new construction in California for the purpose of ensuring that the level of exterior noise transmitted to and received within the interior living spaces of buildings is compatible with their comfortable use. For new residential dwellings, hotels, motels, dormitories, and school classrooms, the acceptable interior noise limit for habitable rooms in
new construction is 45 dBA CNEL or Ldn. Title 24 requires acoustical studies for residential development in areas exposed to more than 60 dBA CNEL to demonstrate that
the structure has been designed to limit interior noise in habitable rooms to acceptable noise levels. Where exterior noise levels are projected to exceed 60 dBA CNEL or Ldn at the facade of a building, a report must be submitted with the building plans that describe the noise control measures that have been incorporated into the design of the project to meet the 45 dBA CNEL or Ldn noise limit.

California Green Building Code
The California Green Building Code, also referred to
as CalGreen (ICC 2017), provides requirements under
Environmental Comfort related to noise, including
acoustical control, exterior noise transmission prescriptive method, noise exposure where noise contours are not
readily available, performance method, site features, and interior sound transmission.

State of California Land Use Compatibility
Criteria
The State of California adopts suggested land use noise compatibility levels as part of its General Plan Guidelines.

These suggested guidelines provide urban planners with
an integral tool to gauge the compatibility of land uses relative to existing and future noise levels. The guidelines identify normally acceptable, conditionally acceptable, normally unacceptable, and clearly unacceptable noise
levels for various land uses. A conditionally acceptable designation implies new construction or development
should be undertaken only after a detailed analysis of the noise reduction requirements for each land use is made
and needed noise insulation features are incorporated
into the design. By comparison, a normally acceptable
designation indicates that standard construction can
occur with no special noise reduction requirements. The land use compatibility guidelines are intended to be an advisory resource when considering changes in land use
and policies, such as zoning modifications. The Land Use Compatibility Guidelines are shown in Table N-2.

There are four categories of noise
levels for various land uses that help
planners gauge the compatibility
of land uses relative to existing and
future noise levels:
• Normally acceptable
• Conditionally acceptable
• Normally unacceptable
• Clearly unacceptable
State of California Land Use Compatibility Criteria.

Introduction | What is a Noise Element? 13
2Introduction
DRAFT October 2022
Table N-2: Land Use Compatibility Guidelines for Noise Exposure Land Use Type
Community Noise Exposure
Ldn or CNEL, dB
55 60 65 70 75 80 85
Residential - Low Density
Single Family Duplex,
Mobile Homes
Residential - Multi-Family
Transient Lodging -
Hotels, Motels
Schools, Libraries, Churches,
Hospitals, Nursing Homes
Auditoriums, Concert Halls,
Amphitheaters
Sports Arena, Outdoor
Spectator Sports
Playgrounds, Neighborhood
Parks
Golf Courses, Riding
Stables, Water Recreation,
Cemeteries
Office Buildings - Business,
Commercial & Professional
Industrial, Manufacturing,
Utilities, Agriculture
Normally Acceptable Specified land use is satisfactory, based upon the assumption that any buildings involved are of normal conventional construction, without any special noise insulation requirements.

Conditionally Acceptable
New construction or development should be undertaken only after a detailed analysis of the noise reduction requirements is made and needed noise insulation features included in the design.

Conventional construction, but with closed windows and fresh air supply systems or air conditioning will normally suffice.

Normally Unacceptable
New construction or development should generally be discouraged. If new construction or development does proceed, a detailed analysis of the noise reduction requirements must be made and needed noise insulation features included in the design.

Clearly Unacceptable New construction or development should generally not be undertaken.

Source: California Office of Planning and Research, General Plan Guidelines (2017), Appendix D. 14 Introduction
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DRAFT October 2022
State of California Vehicle Code
Division 12, Equipment of Vehicles, Chapter 5, Other
Equipment, Article 2, Exhaust Systems, and Article 2.5, Noise Limits, provide regulations related to noise levels associated with motor vehicles, including exhaust systems and noise limits.

Long Beach Airport
State of California Airport Land Use
Requirements
The State of California has multiple regulations and
standards that apply to airports. These are briefly
summarized below:
» The Aeronautics Division of the California State
Department of Transportation (Caltrans)
» Enforces the California Airport Noise Regulations.

These regulations establish 65 dB CNEL as the noise
impact boundary within which there shall be no
incompatible land uses. Airports are responsible
for achieving compliance with these regulations.

Compliance can be achieved through noise
abatement alternatives, land acquisition, land use
conversion, land use restrictions, or sound insulation
of structures. Airports not in compliance can operate
under variance procedures established within the
regulations.
» California Noise Insulation Standards apply to all
multi-family dwellings built in the State. Single-family residences are exempt from these regulations. The
regulations require that all multi-family dwellings
with exterior noise exposures greater that 60 dB CNEL
must be sound insulated such that the interior noise
level will not exceed 45 dB CNEL. These requirements
apply to all roadway, rail, and airport noise sources.
» The State of California requires that all municipal
General Plans contain a Noise Element. The
requirements for the Noise Element of the General
Plan include describing the noise environment
quantitatively using a cumulative noise metric
such as CNEL or DNL, establishing noise/land use
compatibility criteria, and establishing programs for
achieving and/or maintaining compatibility. Noise
elements shall address all major noise sources in the
community including mobile and stationary sources.
» Airport Land Use Commissions were created by State
Law for the purpose of establishing a regional level of land use compatibility between
» Airports and their surrounding environs. The Los
Angeles County Airport Land Use Commission has
adopted an Airport Environs Land Use Plan (AELUP)
for Los Angeles County airports including Long Beach
Airport. The AELUP criteria for sensitive land uses at
65 dB CNEL for outdoor areas and 45 dB CNEL for
indoor areas of residential land uses.

Introduction | What is a Noise Element? 15
2Introduction
DRAFT October 2022
State of California Motorized Watercraft
Requirements
The State of California has established requirements and limits as it relates to noise associated with watercraft. Any motorized vessel operated on the inland waters of California or on ocean waters within one mile of the coastline must be muffled or otherwise prevented from exceeding the
following noise levels:
» As measured using a stationary sound level test as
defined by SAE J-2005:
• 90 decibels if the engine was manufactured
before January 1, 1993
• 88 decibels if the engine was manufactured on or
after January 1, 1993, or
» 75 decibels measured as defined by SAE J-1970 for
all engines. However, such measurement shall not
preclude a stationary sound level test as prescribed
by SAE J-2005.

Exceptions to the above restrictions are made for vessels participating in permitted regattas, boat races or speed trials. Authorities generally agree that unbaffled exhaust pipes (stacks) and most water-injected pipes do not meet the above noise level requirements. Unmodified outboards usually meet legal requirements.

Municipal Code
The Long Beach Municipal Code (LBMC) contains the
City’s Noise Ordinance in Chapter 8.80. In addition to this section, many chapters and sections of the Municipal Code contain regulations related to noise within Long Beach. The LBMC implements Long Beach General Plan policies and
strategies.

Community Engagement
To inform the Noise Element update and identify potential issues, a variety of community engagement strategies
were employed. A City of Long Beach project webpage
was established as well as a Facebook and Twitter account for the Noise Element at #ListenUpLB. Project background was furnished and the community was invited to use an
online engagement tool linked on the sites. The online tool provided a map-based ability to provide comments on a
range of topics linked to specific locations throughout the city. Awareness of this opportunity for participation was provided through the City’s website, emails, Facebook and Twitter advertising, and counter cards placed throughout city hall and other locations. Materials were provided in both English and Spanish.
#ListenUpLB materials
16 Introduction
2 Noise Element | City of Long Beach
DRAFT October 2022
In addition, a series of meetings were conducted with
internal and external stakeholders. Initial meetings were held with City departments and local agencies including the Police Department, Noise Control Office, Animal Care Services, Public Works, Port, Airport and Long Beach Unified School District. Meetings with focus groups included public health professionals/academics, environmental justice, bar and restaurant operators, and the construction industry, as well as the Environmental Health Working Group and
various local school students in their classrooms. Further, a Planning Commission study session was conducted on
April 20, 2017 to introduce the Noise Element work effort and solicit comments from commissioners and members
of the public.

Feedback provided through these various platforms
covered an array of topics and key themes are summarized below:
» Develop regulations that respond to the evolution of
neighborhoods
» Needed coordination with other regulatory agencies
(rail, on-road vehicles, aircraft)
» Common annoyances: Leaf blowers, rail line
operations, motorcycles, helicopters, loud music,
construction, dogs, park/beach activities, bars/
restaurants, autos/freeway, industrial and commercial
uses
» Noise impacted communities in West Long Beach
» Effectiveness of good communication, relationshipbuilding, proactive noticing » Technology trending toward quieter equipment
Received comments and input informed collection of noise data and the preparation of the Noise Element.

Next Bold Moves: Vision in
Motion
Long Beach is committed to innovative and meaningful
policies to advance the vision of the community and this Noise Element. In order to create a healthy, more equitable noise environment, the City will work to pave the way in several aspects of noise management. Communication of
noise policy, creative and thoughtful urban design, and advanced technology will help foster a balanced noise
environment in Long Beach.

Communication
Communication is a central aspect of noise management.

Ensuring clear communication between the various City
departments that manage noise, residents, business
owners, and special event managers will serve as a strong foundation for noise management and minimizing noise
impacts. Noise policy and the noise ordinance should be clear and enforced, as well as continue to evolve over time based on feedback and better information. Reminders
of the noise ordinance should be strategically provided throughout the City.

Design
Land use compatibility and urban design can prevent noise impacts before they begin. Thoughtfully sited and oriented uses, along with creative placemaking can focus noise
sources and buffer sensitive receptors from noise impacts.

Technology
Long Beach will seek the latest technology regarding noise mitigation. This includes building materials, freeway noise buffering, public transit, and even technology such as
silent fireworks. Noise monitoring equipment used within the City will also be as advanced as possible.

Context
Understanding the Noise Environment
3 “But a city is more than a place in space, it is
a drama in time.”
Patrick Geddes
Scottish Scientist
Context
Understanding the Noise Environment
3 Our Region. Our City. 19
Noise Sources 20
» Land Use Patterns............................................................................................ 20 » Mobility ............................................................................................................... 21 » Special Events................................................................................................... 24 » Construction and Nuisance Noises........................................................... 24 Vibration Sources 25
» Construction...................................................................................................... 26 » Rail Activity ........................................................................................................ 27 » Heavy Vehicles and Buses............................................................................. 27 » Other.................................................................................................................... 27 Context | Understanding the Noise Environment 19
3Context
DRAFT October 2022
Our Region. Our City.

Long Beach is committed to creating a healthy noise
environment throughout the metropolitan City. The Long
Beach Noise Ordinance (Chapter 8.80 of the Long Beach
Municipal Code) is intended to protect people from
non-transportation noise sources such as construction
activities, commercial operations, machinery, and
nightlife. Enforcement of the noise ordinance requires new developments to show compliance with the ordinance,
including operating in accordance with noise levels
recommended in this element. The ordinance also provides general standards for prohibited noises and identifies
specific activities that are prohibited because of their capability to create unreasonable noise. As an example, the City requires construction activity to comply with
established work schedule limits (see Section 8.80.202, Construction Activity-Noise Regulations).

Long Beach is an urban, developed City. As with any
developed environment, it is subject to numerous noise
sources. Major sources of noise include traffic, rail, aircraft, and stationary sources. Many freeways and corridors
throughout Long Beach contribute to traffic noise within the City, including I-405, I-605, I-710, SR-22, SR-91, Pacific Coast Highway or State Route 1 (SR-1), and Long Beach
Boulevard. In addition to the automobile and truck traffic along these corridors, the City is currently served by Long Beach Transit, a public transit agency with bus service along major roadways in the City through various routes (i.e., Routes 1, 21, 22, 81, and 192). The Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) operates a limited number of local and express buses. The Long Beach Transit Gallery serves as the southern terminus of the Metro Blue Line and is the main transit hub for bus connections to various Metro, Long Beach Transit, Los Angeles Department of Transportation Commuter Express, and Torrance Transit bus routes. Rail noise is due to the three freight rail lines and one public transit line, the Metro Blue Line, that pass through the City. Aircraft noise is from the Long Beach Airport, located within City limits.

Anaheim Street and Long Beach Boulevard
20 Context
3 Noise Element | City of Long Beach
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Noise Sources
Land Use Patterns
Noise is a key element for consideration in the arrangement of land uses throughout Long Beach. Thoughtfully
designed land use patterns can be the first step in avoiding potential noise impacts on a neighborhood or group of
people. Additionally, priority should be given to reduction of noise in severely impacted areas through rehabilitative improvements.

The overall noise environment is a conglomeration of noise from several sources. Mobility sources, including vehicular traffic, rail, aircraft and watercraft, contribute to the daily transportation-related noise in Long Beach. Another noise source is special events, which occur on a periodic basis. The last category of noise sources is construction and nuisance noises, which include machinery, heating ventilation and air conditioning systems, compressors, and landscape
maintenance equipment among others.

Though Long Beach is unique in that the Port of Long
Beach is so active, operation noise levels are generally limited to areas within the perimeter of the Port. Noise associated with the Port includes cranes, forklifts, and truck activities. Due to the distance from daily operations, which are located close to the coast, to the nearest sensitive uses, noise impacts are rarely audible at such a large distance.

Heavy truck traffic associated with the transport of cargo along the I-710 corridor is the primary source of noise associated with the Port. Impacts associated with the Port of Long Beach, including noise, were assessed in the Port of Long Beach Community Impact Study in July 2016.

Commercial, commercial-industrial, light-industrial, and to a lesser extent residential land uses in the City have the potential to generate high noise levels and impact
surrounding land uses with their equipment operation.

Noise sources from these land uses include air conditioning or refrigeration units, power tools, lawn equipment,
generators, and other powered mechanical equipment.

Additionally, activities that are not necessarily “stationary” include parking lot activities, truck deliveries, and events are oftentimes classified in the same categories.

The highest priority for protection from noise are “sensitive receptors,” or groups which are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of noise. Examples of sensitive receptors include residential neighborhoods, schools, hospitals,
religious facilities, libraries, offices and parks. Areas of Long Beach with sensitive receptors should be protected through proper land use planning.

Pine Avenue
Context | Understanding the Noise Environment 21
3Context
DRAFT October 2022
Mobility
Traffic Noise
Automobiles, buses, trucks, motorcycles and trains
dominate transportation noise in the City. Traffic moving along streets and freeways produces a sound level
that remains relatively constant and is part of the City’s minimum ambient noise level. Vehicular noise varies
depending on the volume, speed and type of traffic. Slower traffic produces less noise than fast moving traffic. Trucks typically generate more noise than cars. Infrequent or
intermittent noise is also associated with vehicles, including sirens, vehicle alarms, slamming of doors, garbage and
construction vehicle activity and honking of horns. These noises add to urban noise and are regulated by a variety of agencies. Often times, noise from motorcycle activities are specifically noticed over general traffic noise impacts due acceleration, exposed motor and, in some cases, lack of or modified mufflers.

Bus service is provided on major streets, collectors, and local streets within the City’s circulation system. For the purpose of assessing vehicular noise, three generic weight classifications are considered (light, medium, and heavy).

At 35 mph, 1 medium duty truck is as loud as 10 cars, 1 bus is as loud as 20 cars, and 1 heavy truck is as loud as 30 cars.

In addition, noise from traffic sources may be worsened by grade (inclined roadway) or by the condition of the
pavement.

Major transportation noise sources in the City include traffic on I-405, I-605, I-710, SR-22, SR-91, SR-103, Terminal Island Freeway, Pacific Coast Highway, and Long Beach Boulevard.

In addition to typical automobiles and medium and
heavy trucks, the City is currently served by Long Beach Transit, a public transit agency, with bus service along major roadways in the City through various routes (i.e., Routes 1, 21, 22, 81, and 192). The Los Angeles County
Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) operates
a limited number of local and express buses. The Long
Beach Transit Gallery serves as the southern terminus of the Metro Blue Line light rail and is the main transit hub for bus connections to various Metro, Long Beach Transit, Los Angeles Department of Transportation Commuter Express,
and Torrance Transit bus routes.

Rail Noise
The noise impacts associated with rail activities depend heavily on a number of factors, including the type of
train, the length of train, the physical track conditions, the geometry and intervening structures between the rail line and its receptor, the number of trains operating during the daytime, the number of trains operating during the night time, and the speed of the train. Additionally, when a horn is required to sound a warning, which is typical for at-grade crossings, the noise impact would be greatest at the land uses closest to the intersection.

Currently, three freight rail lines pass through the City which are operated by Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corporation (BNSF) Railway, Union Pacific Railroad Company (UPRR),
and Pacific Harbor Line Incorporated (PHL). The rail lines run north-south through the west side of the City, through the northwest corner of the City, around the neighborhood of North Long Beach.

Interstate 405 Metro Light Rail
22 Context
3 Noise Element | City of Long Beach
DRAFT October 2022
Service Layer Credits: Sources: Esri, HERE,
DeLorme, USGS, Intermap, increment P
Corp., NRCAN, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China
(Hong Kong), Esri (Thailand), MapmyIndia, ©
OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS
User Community
§¨¦710
§¨¦710
§¨¦405
§¨¦405
§¨¦605
ÄÆ91
SOURCE: Esri (2016); LSA (5/2017)
LEGEND
Long Beach City Boundary
Long Beach Airport
Port of Long Beach
Industrial Area
Freeway
Metro Blue Line
Freight Line
0 0.75 1.5
MILES
Figure N-1, Existing Major Noise Sources
Context | Understanding the Noise Environment 23
3Context
DRAFT October 2022
In addition to freight activities, the Metro Blue Line which serves as public transit, is part of the Metro Rail System that runs north-south from Los Angeles to Long Beach, traveling south via Long Beach Avenue, Willowbrook Avenue, and
Long Beach Boulevard to its final destination at the Long Beach Transit Gallery. The Metro Blue Line operates daily, including all major holidays.

Based on the Federal Railroad Administration crossing
inventories completed between January 1, 2000 and
September 17, 2017 conducted at various crossings in the City, typical operations along the main rail line included up to 74 trains per day ranging in speed from 5 to 25 mph.

Aircraft Noise
Aircraft noise within the City is predominately influenced by operations at the Long Beach Airport located within the City limits. Operations at the Long Beach Airport include commercial air carriers, commuter flights, industrial planes, charter flights, and other general aviation. Operations at the Long Beach Airport typically occur within the daytime hours of 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., with the exception of occasional unscheduled landings that occur after 10:00 p.m., and emergency and police helicopter activities. The Long Beach Airport Community Guide to Aircraft Noise presents factual information on the City of Long Beach Airport
Noise Compatibility Ordinance (Long Beach Municipal
Code Chapter 16.43) and Long Beach Airport’s efforts
to minimize aircraft noise over nearby neighborhoods.

While the City is not able to control the flight paths, typical operations include approaches from the southeast of the airport and departures taking off in a northwest direction.

Apart from the restrictions on hours of day, noise budgets are utilized to limit aircraft activities. Noise budgets do not directly restrict the operation of a particular aircraft, in contrast to night time restrictions, but they restrict access by the fleet as a whole. Noise budgets restrict the overall noise during a certain period of time, which could be
seasonally related or annual.

Currently, the City has implemented a Helicopter Noise
Reduction Study Group that provides members of the
public the opportunity to meet with both City and Airport staff to discuss issues and concerns regarding helicopter noise including rotor or “chop” noise, hovering, and
inconsistent flight paths. While the City cannot directly control the majority of the operations associated with
helicopters, specifically those related to emergency and police, the City maintains an interest in helping resolve noise issues where possible. Members of the communities Long Beach Airport
24 Context
3 Noise Element | City of Long Beach
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are currently participating as a part of the Los Angeles Area Helicopter Coalition (LAAHNC) and regularly meet
with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) representatives, helicopter operators, and Long Beach Airport staff in an effort to reduce noise exposure from helicopter operations.

Watercraft Noise
Watercraft noise along the southern portion of the City varies greatly depending on watercraft type, distance from mainland, and overall control and use of equipment. While the City does not currently have any specific criteria related to noise associated with watercraft, the State of California Department of Motor Vehicles, as part of its requirements for watercraft operations, does have regulations that would also be applicable in the City of Long Beach.

Special Events
Long Beach is a vibrant coastal city with attractions serving residents, businesses, and visitors. As such, the City has experienced an increased interest in holding special events in Long Beach, especially outdoor special events along the waterfront in the downtown area. These events include,
but are not limited to, community festivals, runs/walks, citywide holiday celebrations, Long Beach Grand Prix, Long Beach Marathon, Long Beach Lesbian and Gay Pride Parade and Celebration, Jazz Festival, and events hosted at the Queen Mary. These activities help build a foundation that fosters sustainable community development, economic
development, and tourism. However, with residents living in close proximity to these events, ensuring managed
frequency and intensity of the noise from these events is a priority for the City. Long Beach is seeking an informed, balanced approach to managing the needs of these events while continuing to prioritize the well-being of residents.

Construction and Nuisance Noises
Construction noise, though temporary in nature, can cause noise disruptions on an on-going basis. Long Beach is a growing metropolitan City, therefore construction noise is an expected part of the noise environment. Restrictions on noise from construction are especially important for sensitive receptors. The primary method of restricting
noise from construction is through limiting the hours in which construction activity is permitted.

Beach Streets Concert
Context | Understanding the Noise Environment 25
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The City of Long Beach has a wide variety of land use types.

Within the commercial and downtown area, certain uses
including restaurants, bars, and clubs have the potential to generate noise which may be perceived as annoying
or disturbing. Additionally, sources of noise that are
permissible under existing laws and regulations still have the potential to disrupt the peace, cause sleep interference, and can create an undesirable setting for residents. The following graphic lists some of the potential sources of noise that have been noted to occur with regularity in the City limits:

Vibration Sources
Major vibration sources in the City include construction activities, rail operations, heavy vehicle traffic, and vehicle loading and delivery operations. Other sources which
have the potential to cause vibration impacts are aircraft operations, low-frequency music and some stationary
sources. Similar to noise standards, cities can adopt
vibration exposure standards regarding the sensitivity of land uses which may be affected. In relation to vibration impacts, there are two factors that are considered to
assessing the level of impact expected: the potential
for damage to a building or structure and the potential of annoyance to people. Also similar to potential noise impacts, the most efficient actions to help reduce vibration impacts occur during the planning and permitting phases of any project or development.

Other potential noise sources
Loud motorcycles
and speeding
vehicles.

Emergency
back-up
beepers.

Restaurant and
bar operations.

House
parties.

Excessive HVAC
operations.

Construction
work.

Emergency
vehicle sirens.

Train
horns.

Helicopter
and airplane
activities.

Car
alarms.

Barking
dogs and
loud birds.

Fireworks.

Leaf
blowers.
26 Context
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Construction
Construction activities can cause vibration that varies in intensity depending on several factors. The use of pile driving and vibratory compaction equipment typically
generates the highest construction related groundborne vibration levels. Because of the impulsive nature of such activities, the use of the peak particle velocity (PPV) descriptor has been routinely used to measure and assess ground-borne vibration and almost exclusively
to assess the potential of vibration to induce structural damage and the degree of annoyance for humans. The two
primary concerns with construction-induced vibration,
the potential to damage a structure and the potential to interfere with the enjoyment of life, are evaluated against different vibration limits. Studies have shown that the threshold of perception for average persons is in the range of 0.2 to 0.3 millimeters per second (0.008 to 0.012 inches per second), PPV. Human perception to vibration varies
with the individual and is a function of physical setting and the type of vibration. Persons exposed to elevated ambient vibration levels (e.g., people in an urban environment) may tolerate a higher vibration level. Structural damage can be classified as cosmetic only (e.g., minor cracking of building elements) or may threaten the integrity of the building. Safe vibration limits that can be applied to assess the potential for damaging a structure vary by researcher and there is no general consensus as to what amount of
vibration may pose a threat for structural damage to the building. Construction-induced vibration that can be
detrimental to a building is very rare and has only been observed in instances where the structure is at a high state of disrepair and the construction activity (e.g., impact pile driving) occurs immediately adjacent to the structure.

Threshold of perception for average
persons is in the range of 0.2 to 0.3
millimeters per second PPV.

Construction-induced vibration may interfere with the
enjoyment of life.

Potential to
annoy people.

Potential for damage to
building or structure.

Two factors help measure the impact of noise to humans and buildings.

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Rail Activity
Rail operations are potential sources of substantial groundborne vibration depending on distance, the type and the speed of trains, and the type of railroad track. People’s response to ground-borne vibration has been correlated
best with how quickly sounds moves through the ground.

The velocity of the ground is expressed on the decibel
scale. The reference velocity is 1 x 10-6 inches per second.

RMS, which equals 0 vibration velocity decibels (VdB), and 1 inch per second equals 120 VdB. Although not a universally accepted notation, the abbreviation “VdB” is used in this document for vibration decibels to reduce the potential for confusion with sound decibels.

One of the challenges with developing suitable criteria for ground-borne vibration is the limited research into human response to vibration and, more importantly, human
annoyance inside buildings. The United States Department of Transportation, Federal Transit Administration has
developed rational vibration limits that can be used to evaluate human annoyance to ground-borne vibration.

These criteria are primarily based on experience with
passenger train operations (e.g., rapid transit and commuter rail systems). The main difference between passenger and freight operations is the time duration of individual events.

For example, a passenger train lasts a few seconds whereas a long freight train may last several minutes, depending on speed and length.

Heavy Vehicles and Buses
Ground-borne vibration levels from heavy trucks and buses are not normally perceptible, especially if roadway surfaces are smooth. Buses and trucks typically generate groundborne vibration levels of about 63 VdB at a distance of 25 feet when traveling at a speed of 30 miles per hour (mph).

Higher vibration levels can occur when buses or trucks
travel at higher rates of speed or when the pavement is in poor condition. Vibration levels below 65 VdB are below the threshold for human perception.

Other
In addition to activities that have vibration impacts
which translate through the ground surface between
source and receptor, sources which generate high levels of low-frequency noise may generate vibration through
air. These sources may include aircraft and helicopter
operations, low-frequency music and other large stationary sources. When the vibration effects of these sources are felt or experienced by a receptor, to determine the level of impact, low-frequency noise measurements are the best
method to determine the impact.

Ground-borne
vibration decibels
depend on the
distance, type and
speed of trains, and
type of track.

Many factors affect ground-borne vibration.

At 30 mph, buses and trucks
typically generate vibration
levels of 63 VdB at a distance
of 25 feet. Vibration levels
below 65 VdB are below
the threshold for human
perception.

How loud are busses and trucks?
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Noise Fundamentals
Characteristics of Sound
4 “The City is what it is because our citizens are
what they are.”
Plato
Classical Greek Philosopher
Noise Fundamentals
Characteristics of Sound
4 Characteristics of Sound 31
» Measurement of Sound................................................................................. 31 » Physiological Effects of Noise...................................................................... 34 Noise Fundamentals | Characteristics of Sound 31
Context
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Characteristics of sound
Sound is increasing in the environment and can affect
quality of life. Noise is usually defined as unwanted
sound. Noise consists of any sound that may produce
physiological or psychological damage and/or interfere
with communication, work, rest, recreation, and sleep.

To the human ear, sound has two significant characteristics:
pitch and loudness. Pitch is generally an annoyance, while loudness can affect the ability to hear. Pitch is the number of complete vibrations (or cycles per second) of a wave, resulting in the tone’s range from high to low. Loudness is the strength of a sound and describes a noisy or quiet environment; it is measured by the amplitude of the sound wave. Loudness is determined by the intensity of the
sound waves combined with the reception characteristics of the human ear. Sound intensity refers to how hard the sound wave strikes an object, which in turn produces
the sound’s effect. This characteristic of sound can be precisely measured with instruments. Typically, a noise analysis defines the noise environment within a specific area in terms of sound intensity and the effect on adjacent sensitive land uses.

Pitch
Loudness
Measurement of Sound
Sound intensity is measured through the A-weighted scale to correct for the relative frequency response of the human ear. That is, an A-weighted noise level de-emphasizes low and very high frequencies of sound similar to the human ear’s de-emphasis of these frequencies. Unlike linear units, such as inches or pounds, decibels are measured on a
logarithmic scale representing points on a sharply rising curve.

For example, 10 decibels (dB) is 10 times more intense
than 1 dB, 20 dB is 100 times more intense, and 30 dB is 1,000 times more intense. Thirty decibels (30 dB) represent 1,000 times as much acoustic energy as 1 dB. The decibel scale increases as the square of the change, representing the sound-pressure energy. A sound as soft as human
breathing is about 10 times greater than 0 dB. The decibel system of measuring sound gives a rough connection
between the physical intensity of sound and its perceived loudness to the human ear. A 10 dB increase in sound level is perceived by the human ear as only a doubling of the loudness of the sound. Ambient sounds generally range
from 30 A-weighted decibels (dBA) (very quiet) to 100 dBA (very loud).
32 Noise Element | City of Long Beach
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Table N-3: Definitions of Acoustical Terms
Term Definition
Decibel, dB A unit of noise level that denotes the ratio between two quantities that are proportional to power; the number of decibels is 10 times the logarithm (to the base 10) of this ratio.

Frequency, Hz Of a function periodic in time; the number of times that the quantity repeats itself in one second (i.e., number of cycles per second).

A-Weighted Sound Level,
dBA
The sound level obtained by use of A-weighting. The A-weighting filter de-emphasizes the very low and very high frequency components of the sound in a manner similar to the frequency response of the human ear and correlates well with subjective reactions to noise. (All sound levels in this report are A-weighted, unless reported otherwise.) L02, L08, L50, L90 The fast A-weighted noise levels that are equaled or exceeded by a fluctuating sound level 2 percent, 8 percent, 50 percent, and 90 percent of a stated time period.

Equivalent Continuous
Noise Level, Leq
The level of a steady sound that, in a stated time period and at a stated location, has the same A-weighted sound energy as the time-varying sound.

Community Noise
Equivalent Level, CNEL
The 24-hour A-weighted average sound level from midnight to midnight, obtained after the addition of 5 dB to sound levels occurring in the evening from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. and after the addition of 10 dB to sound levels occurring in the night between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.

Day/Night Noise Level, Ldn The 24-hour A-weighted average sound level from midnight to midnight, obtained after the addition of 10 dB to sound levels occurring in the night between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.

Lmax, Lmin The maximum and minimum A-weighted sound levels measured on a sound level meter during a designated time interval using fast-time averaging.

Ambient Noise Level The all-encompassing noise associated with a given environment at a specified time; usually a composite of sound from many sources from many directions, near and far; no particular sound is dominant.

Intrusive The noise that intrudes over and above the existing ambient noise at a given location.

The relative intrusiveness of a sound depends upon its amplitude, duration, frequency, time of occurrence, tonal or informational content, and the prevailing ambient noise level.

Sound Exposure Level (SEL) A measure of the total noise within an event which accounts for duration.

Single Event Noise
Equivalent Level (SENEL)
The sound exposure level for a defined noise threshold level.

Source: Handbook of Acoustical Measurement and Noise Control (Harris 1991).

Noise Fundamentals | Characteristics of Sound 33
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Sound levels are generated from a source, and their decibel level decreases as the distance from that source increases.

Sound dissipates exponentially with distance from the
noise source. For a single-point source, sound levels
decrease approximately 6 dB for each doubling of distance from the source. This drop-off rate is appropriate for noise generated by stationary equipment. If noise is produced by a line source (e.g., highway traffic or railroad operations) the sound decreases 3 dB for each doubling of distance in a hard site environment. Line source noise in a relatively flat environment with absorptive vegetation decreases 4.5 dB for each doubling of distance.

There are many ways to rate noise for various time periods, but an appropriate rating of ambient noise affecting humans also accounts for the annoying effects of sound. Equivalent continuous sound level (Leq) is the total sound energy of time-varying noise over a sample period. However, the
predominant rating scales for human communities in the
State of California are the Leq and the Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) or the day-night average level (Ldn) based on A-weighted decibels. CNEL is the time-varying
noise over a 24-hour period, with a 5 dBA weighting factor applied to the hourly Leq for noises occurring from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. (defined as relaxation hours) and a 10 dBA weighting factor applied to noise occurring from 10:00
p.m. to 7:00 a.m. (defined as sleeping hours). Ldn is similar to the CNEL scale but without the adjustment for events occurring during the evening hours. CNEL and Ldn are within 1 dBA of each other and are normally interchangeable. The noise adjustments are added to the noise events occurring during the more sensitive hours.

Other noise rating scales of importance, when assessing the annoyance factor, include the maximum noise level
(Lmax), which is the highest exponential time-averaged
sound level that occurs during a stated time period. The noise environments discussed in this analysis are specified in terms of Lmax for short-term noise impacts. Lmax reflects peak-operating conditions and addresses the annoying
aspects of intermittent noise.
0 dB
500
1000
30 dB
20 0
Exponential intensity of decibels A-weighted decibels (dBA) of ambient sounds 40 60 80 100
120
140
160
Ambient sounds generally range from
30 decibels (very quiet) to 100 dBA (very
loud)
34 Noise Element | City of Long Beach
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Another noise scale often used together with the Lmax
in noise ordinances for enforcement purposes is noise
standards in terms of percentile noise levels. For example, the L10 noise level represents the noise level exceeded 10 percent of the time during a stated period. The L50 noise level represents the median noise level. Half of the time the noise level exceeds this level, and half of the time it is less than this level. The L90 noise level represents the noise level exceeded 90 percent of the time and is considered the background noise level during a monitoring period.

For a relatively constant noise source, the Leq and L50 are approximately the same.

Noise impacts can be described in three categories. The first includes audible impacts, which refer to increases in noise levels noticeable to humans. Audible increases in noise levels generally refer to a change of 3 dB or greater, because this level has been found to be barely perceptible in exterior environments. The second category, potentially audible, refers to a change in the noise level between
1 and 3 dB. This range of noise levels has been found to be noticeable only in laboratory environments. The last category includes changes in noise level of less than
1 dB, which are inaudible to the human ear. Only audible changes in existing ambient or background noise levels are considered potentially significant.

Physiological Effects of Noise
Physical damage to human hearing begins at prolonged
exposure to noise levels higher than 85 dBA. Exposure to high noise levels affects the entire system, with prolonged noise exposure in excess of 75 dBA increasing body tensions and thereby affecting blood pressure and functions of the heart and the nervous system. In comparison, extended
periods of noise exposure above 90 dBA would result in
permanent cell damage. When the noise level reaches 120 dBA, a tickling sensation occurs in the human ear, even with short-term exposure. This level of noise is called the threshold of feeling. As the sound reaches 140 dBA, the tickling sensation is replaced by the feeling of pain in the ear. This is called the threshold of pain. A sound level of 160 dBA to 165 dBA will potentially result in dizziness or loss of equilibrium. The ambient or background noise problem is common and generally more concentrated in urban areas
than in outlying, less-developed areas.

Audible impacts:
3 dB or greater
Potentially
audible:
1 to 3 dB
Inaudible:
less than 1 dB
What noise level changes are audible?
Noise Fundamentals | Characteristics of Sound 35
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4 DRAFT October 2022
In addition to the audible effects of noise, research has shown that prolonged exposure to elevated noise levels
may have other negative health effects. As presented in Wolfgang Babisch’s Cardiovascular Effects of Noise, sleep disturbance is considered a major environmental effect.

It is estimated that 80 to 90 percent of the reported cases of sleep disturbance in noisy environments are for reasons other than noise originating outdoors. Examples of sleep disturbance causes include restroom trips; indoor noises from other occupants; worries; illness; and climate. Field studies conducted with people in their normal living
situations are scarce.

The primary sleep disturbance effects of noise are:
difficulty in falling asleep (increased sleep latency time); awakenings; and alterations of sleep stages or depth,
especially a reduction in the proportion of REM-sleep.

Other physiological effects can be induced by noise during sleep, including increased blood pressure; increased heart rate; increased finger pulse amplitude; vasoconstriction; changes in respiration; cardiac arrhythmia; and an increase in body movements. For each of these physiological
effects, both the noise threshold and the noise-response relationships may be different. Different noises may also have different information content and this also could affect physiological threshold and noise-response relationships.

Exposure to night time noise also induces secondary
effects, or so-called after effects. These are effects that can be measured the day following the night time
exposure, while the individual is awake. The secondary
effects include reduced perceived sleep quality, increased fatigue, depressed mood or well-being, and decreased
performance.

Long-term effects on psychosocial well-being have also
been related to noise exposure during the night. Noise
annoyance during the night time increased the total
noise annoyance expressed by people in the following
day. Various studies have also shown that people living in areas exposed to night time noise have an increased use of sedatives or sleeping pills. Other frequently reported behavioral effects of night time noise include closed
bedroom windows and use of personal hearing protection.

Sensitive groups include the elderly, shift workers, persons especially vulnerable to physical or mental disorders and other individuals with sleeping difficulties.

Table N-3 lists definitions of acoustical terms and Table N-4 shows common sound levels and their noise sources.

Physical damage to human hearing
begins at prolonged exposure to noise
levels higher than 85 dBA.

Extremely Painful
Loud
Very
Loud
Faint Moderate
160 150 140
130 120 110 100 90
80 70 60
50 40 30 20 10
dBA
36 Noise Element | City of Long Beach
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Extremely Painful
Loud
Loud Very
Loud
Quiet Moderately
Loud
Very Faint Faint
10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 100 110 120 130 140
Noise Environments (dBA)
Near
Jet
Engine
128
64 32
16 8
4 2
Civil Defense
Siren
Hard Rock Band
Accelerating Motorcycle
Pile Driver, Noisy Urban Street
Ambulance Siren, Food Blender
Vacuum Cleaner
Near Freeway Auto Traffic
Average Office
Light Traffic/Soft Radio Music
Average Residence
Soft
Whisper
Rustling Leaves
Human
Breathing
Subjective Evaluations
Table N-4: Common Sound Levels and Their Noise Sources
Noise Plan
Creating Livable Environments
5 “Cities have the capability of providing something for everybody, only because, and only when, they are created by everybody.” Jane Jacobs
Urbanist, Author - The Death and Life of Great American Cities Noise Plan
Creating Livable Environments
5 Placetype Characteristics and Land Use Compatibility 39 Mobility 43
» Vehicle Noise..................................................................................................... 43 » Rail ........................................................................................................................ 47 » Aircraft................................................................................................................. 48 » Watercraft........................................................................................................... 50 Construction 51
Special Events 52
Environmental Justice and Social Equity 53
Noise Management 54
Noise Plan | Creating Livable Environments 39
Noise Plan
5 DRAFT October 2022
This Noise Element identifies strategies and policies to implement the vision of a healthy, livable noise environment in Long Beach. The strategies and policies outlined in this chapter identify specific ways the City is working toward that vision. Long Beach is constantly pursuing innovative policies to lead the way in planning for noise in an evolving urban environment.

Placetype characteristics
and land use compatibility
Long Beach values the health and wellness of its residents.

PlaceTypes identified within the Land Use Element
establish neighborhood form, character and communityscaled districts structured around development patterns, streetscape design, and urban form. These areas range in development intensity and activity. Land use compatibility and project design strategies and policies are established to protect more sensitive PlaceTypes such as Founding
and Contemporary Neighborhoods and Multifamily
Residential—Low and Moderate. Additional policies are
provided for more active areas such as Transit-Oriented Development – Low and Moderate, Downtown, and
Waterfront PlaceTypes to promote harmony within
entertainment and visitor-serving areas. Finally, policies are provided for business and employment center
PlaceTypes including Community Commercial, Industrial,
Neo-Industrial, Regional-Serving Facility, as well as the Port of Long Beach, to address noise generated from operations and service. Development of buildings, neighborhoods,
streets, and outdoor spaces within any PlaceType should be designed to identify and reduce or eliminate unnecessary noise near noise sensitive areas. In summary, noise
policies are largely organized to correspond to established PlaceTypes that reflect differentiated area characteristics. A map of Long Beach PlaceTypes is brought forward from the Land Use Element for ease of reference.

Recognizing that much of Long Beach is currently
developed and in proximity to existing roadways, land use decisions must be made in context considering ambient
noise levels. For example, adaptive reuse of an existing building may be in a location with high ambient noise,
however, measures to the degree practical should be
applied to minimize noise impacts.

Strategy No. 1 Apply site planning and other design
strategies to reduce noise impacts, especially within the Founding and Contemporary Neighborhoods, Multifamily
Residential—Low and Moderate, and NeighborhoodServing Centers and Corridors – Low and Moderate PlaceTypes.
» Policy N 1-1: Integrate noise considerations into the land use planning process in order to prevent new
land use noise conflicts.
» Policy N 1-2: Require noise attenuation measures
to be incorporated into all development and
redevelopment of sensitive receptor uses, including
residential, health care facilities, schools, libraries, senior facilities, and churches in close proximity to
existing or known planned rail lines.
» Policy N 1-3: Ensure development and redevelopment
is considerate of the natural shape and contours of a
site in order to reduce noise impacts.
» Policy N 1-4: Encourage developers or landowners
to incorporate noise reduction features in the site
planning process.
» Policy N 1-5: Incorporate urban design strategies
such as courtyards, paseos, alleys, plazas and open
space areas to provide a buffer to noise sensitive uses. » Policy N 1-6: Ensure that project site design and
function minimize the potential adverse impacts of
noise.
» Policy N 1-7: Encourage educational facilities to
locate playgrounds, sports fields, and other outdoor
activity areas away from residential areas.
» Policy N 1-8: Require new development to provide
facilities which support the use of multimodal
transportation, including, walking, bicycling,
carpooling and, transit.
» Policy N 1-9: Utilize noise barriers after all practical design-related noise measures have been integrated
into the project. In instances where sound walls are
necessary, they should be incorporated into the
architectural and site character of the development
and pedestrian access should be integrated.
40 Noise Plan
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66 Land Use Element | City of Long Beach
Draft - November 2017
Land Use Plan
4 Map LU-7

PLACETYPES
1 4/ MI
1/4 MI
RAD UI S :

PU RR
Metro Blue Line
Metro Blue Line
AR I D US :

ARTESIA FWY

ARTESIA

YR ER HC
SOUTH

LONG BEACH BLVD

DEL AMO BLVD
DIEGO
SPRING
WILLOW

PACIFIC COAST
CHERRY

SANTA FE

BEACH PACIFIC COAST
SPRING
L A
County

UNT RAMO PA
DOWNEY

ATLANTIC
ORANGE
MARKET

DEL AMO

CARSON ORANGE
CONANT

SAN ANTONIO
SAN
FWY
RY R
ORANGE

ATHERTON
WILLOW

WARDLOW WARDLOW

STEARNS

CLARK CLARK

SAN DIEGO FWY
70TH

LOS ANGELES RIVER
RIV RE

HARDING
City of
City of
Carson
Compton
City of
Signal Hill
City of
Paramount
City of
Bellflower
City of
Hawaiia
Gardens
n
City of
Lakewood
405 605
405
710
710
91 91

BIXBY
PACIFIC City of Los Alamitos
91 LOS COYOTES DIAGONAL
CARSON

STUDEBAKER

BELLFLOWER

LAKEWOOD

PALO VERDE

SAN GABRIEL RIVER
Long Beach
Airport
Figure N-2, Long Beach PlaceTypes-Northern (Land Use Element) Noise Plan | Creating Livable Environments 41
Noise Plan
5 DRAFT October 2022
Land Use Plan | Creating Vibrant and Exciting Places 67 Draft - November 2017
Land Use Plan
4 TA M
0 0.5 1 0.25
Mile

ANAHEIM
7TH 7TH

PACIFIC COAST
2ND

BROADWAY
OCEAN
R CHER
OCEAN

HARBOR SCENIC
OCEAN
2ND

LOYNES ELIOT ENO IMX
ARK P
APPIAN
4TH

PACIFIC

BROADWAY

SAN GAB I R LE R

ALA TI M OS
4TH
7TH
10TH

ANAHEIM
City of
Seal Beach
y
Los Angeles 710 605
405
405 22
47 103

TEMPLE
405 47
103
3RD STUDEBAKER

REDONDO

TERMINO

JUNIPERO
CSULB
Port of Long Beach
Legend
OS - Open SpaceN - Founding and Contemporary Neighborhood Neighborhoods
EmploymentUnique
Mixed Use
MFR -L - Multi-Family Residential - LowMFR -M - Multi-Family Residential - Moderate NSC-L - Neighborhood-Serving Center or Corridor - LowNSC-M - Neighborhood-Serving Center or Corridor - Moderate TOD-L - Transit-Oriented Development - LowTOD-M - Transit-Oriented Development - Moderate CC - Community Commercial Metro Blue Line Station
and 1/4 Mile Radius I - Industrial
NI - Neo-IndustrialRSF - Regional-Serving FacilityDT - DowntownWF - Waterfront PlaceTypes Light Rail Transit
Figure N-3, Long Beach PlaceTypes-Southern (Land Use Element) 42 Noise Plan
5 Noise Element | City of Long Beach
DRAFT October 2022
Strategy No. 2Create a balance of business practices within dynamic, active, and engaging areas such as the TransitOriented Development – Low and Moderate, Downtown, and Waterfront PlaceType areas to promote activity while respecting adjacent sensitive uses.
» Policy N 2-1: Ensure that developments located in
commercial or entertainment areas do not exceed
stationary-source noise standards at the property line
of proximate residential or commercial uses.
» Policy N 2-2: Require mitigation measures for new
high-generating uses adjacent to sensitive receptors.
» Policy N 2-3: Require that high-generating uses
engage in responsible management and operation
to control the activities of their patrons on-site and
within reasonable and legally justifiable proximity to
minimize noise impacts on adjacent residences.
» Policy N 2-4: Develop, update and apply best practices for restaurants, bars and retail establishments with
evening activities to ensure compatibility such as
limitations on hours, location of trash/recycling,
policies for rooftop activities, and communications
with neighboring residents and businesses.

Strategy No. 3 Capitalize on urban design techniques
and business operation strategies within business and
employment center PlaceTypes (Community Commercial,
Industrial, Neo-Industrial, Regional-Serving Facility, Port of Long Beach) to minimize noise impacts on surrounding adjacent uses.
» Policy N 3-1: Provide sufficient spatial separation
between industrial uses and sensitive receptors.

Utilize mitigation measures where feasible to reduce
the noise source, such as noise attenuation methods,
interrupting the noise path, or insulating the receptor to minimize the exposure of noise-sensitive uses to
excessive industrial-related noise.
» Policy N 3-2: Ensure new industrial uses are in
compliance with the City’s Noise Ordinance.
» Policy N 3-3: Encourage industrial and commercial
activities to restrict their receiving operations to
daytime periods.
» Policy N 3-4: Enforce established hours and routes
for delivery trucks and truck traffic.
» Policy N 3-5: Where sensitive receptors are located
adjacent to industrial uses, reduce noise impacts
through the use of noise barriers, restriction of
operating hours, and investment in noise cancelling
technology.
» Policy N 3-6: Mitigate off-site impacts from port
operations and consider development of grant
programs for off-site port-related noise mitigations.

Strategy No. 4 Protect and buffer noise sensitive areas and uses through effective building design and material selection.
» Policy N 4-1: Encourage developers to utilize noise
absorbing building materials.
» Policy N 4-2: In mixed-use developments, locate
and orient residential units away from noise sources
associated with other uses on the site.
» Policy N 4-3: In mixed-use developments, locate
residential balconies and windows away from the
primary street and from other uses on the site.
» Policy N 4-4: In mixed-use developments, require
techniques to prevent the transfer of noise and
vibration to the residential uses on the site.
» Policy N 4-5: Encourage building design that
incorporates varying and/or angled wall articulation
to disperse noise.

Outdoor dining
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» Policy N 4-6: Promote building design best
practices such as staggering wall studs to minimize
transmission of noise between rooms.
» Policy N 4-7: Consider use of decorative walls and/
or dense landscaping to further buffer noise between
uses.

Strategy No. 5 Implement best practices to reduce impacts of noise from industrial sources.
» Policy N 5-1: In observance of requirements imposed
by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), limit the idling of heavy trucks during night time hours to less
than five minutes.
» Policy N 5-2: Where feasible, require equipment
enclosures for pumps and compressors that exceed
Municipal Code noise standards.
» Policy N 5-3: Encourage conduction of high-noise
or high-vibration activities in a set window or time
during the day.
» Policy N 5-4: Industrial facility owners and/or
operators should use equipment that generates
lower noise and vibration levels, such as rubber-tired
equipment rather than metal-tracked equipment.
» Policy N 5-5: Commercial delivery truck traffic should avoid residential areas whenever feasible.
» Policy N 5-6: Site design should consider sensitive
receptor locations and place noise sources away from
these uses when feasible.
» Policy N 5-7: Encourage industrial operations to
utilize on-site electrical sources to power equipment
rather than diesel generators where feasible.

Mobility
Vehicle Noise
Long Beach has a multitude of sources of vehicle-related noise including automobiles, trucks, motorcycles, and
buses.

Automobiles, Buses, and Trucks
Automobiles, buses, trucks, motorcycles and trains
dominate transportation noise in the City. In addition to the ambient noise level created by freeway and corridor traffic, cars and trucks may also produce intermittent noise like honking and car alarms. Intermittent noise is also produced by public bus routes.

Vehicle Emissions
Vehicle noise emission standards are promulgated by the federal Environmental Protection Agency (Title 49, Code of Federal Regulations Parts 190 et seq.). The Federal Highway Administration (FHA) of the Department of Transportation has authority to enforce noise standards pertaining to
licensed interstate vehicles with a gross weight of over 10,000 pounds, providing the enforcement authority has
been authorized “curbing” (i.e., police) authority. State and local jurisdictions may adopt the Environmental Protection Agency regulations with-out amendment in order to
enforce the regulations. However many cities, including Los Angeles, have not done so because noise emissions, as described previously and below, can be enforced locally as nuisance noise under other authorities.

The California Department of Motor Vehicles has jurisdiction over vehicle noise emissions within California. California Motor Vehicle Code Section 23130 establishes vehicle noise limits for moving vehicles, including interstate trucks that operate on streets, highways and freeways within the state, and regulates noise impacts on adjacent land uses. The
provisions are enforced by the California Highway Patrol and local law enforcement agencies, such as city police.

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Trucks tend to generate greater noise than cars. Certain types of trucks are prohibited by the State from traveling on certain State highways due to safety considerations.

Freeways serve as the primary truck freight haul routes.

Within the City, trucks are allowed to travel on streets except where prohibited by State regulations or by weight or height limits, such as on bridges, in tunnels and on some substandard streets. Because trucks can travel on
most streets and highways in Long Beach, truck noise can impact all areas of the city. Areas especially impacted tend to be those that are located adjacent to industrial and warehouse sites. Truck traffic impacts, including noise, are such a problem near the Port of Long Beach and along the SR-91, I-605, I-710 and I-405 Freeways.

Freeway Noise
By the late 1960s, freeways were a major source of noise throughout the State. Entire communities were impacted, especially at night, by the steady hum or roar generated by fast moving traffic. In 1973-74 state and federal agencies, in response to the 1969 National Environmental Policy Act, adopted formal policies and criteria for construction of noise barriers to mitigate impacts. In California, the responsibility for freeway and highway noise management was assumed
by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans).

As a part of the nationwide highway noise abatement
effort, Caltrans instituted a noise management program
to reduce impacts from existing and new freeways on
residential, school and other noise sensitive uses.

The program utilized noise barriers (sound walls) and/
or building modification methods. Where sound walls
alone cannot reduce interior sound to acceptable levels, buildings sometimes are modified by adding or improving air conditioning, acoustical glass and/or other noise
insulation features.

Future traffic noise contours, consistent with Land Use Element and Mobility Element assumptions, have been
modeled and are shown in Figure 4. Detailed traffic noise contour maps are provided in the appendix.

Strategy No. 6Minimize vehicular traffic noise in residential areas and near noise-sensitive land uses.
» Policy N 6-1: Ensure noise-compatible land uses
along existing and future roadways, highways, and
freeways.
» Policy N 6-2: Use the “Land Use Compatibility
Guidelines” and established Noise Standards or other
measures that are acceptable to the City, to guide
land use and zoning reclassification, subdivision,
conditional use and use variance determinations and
environmental assessment considerations, especially
relative to sensitive uses, as defined by this chapter
within a line-of-sight of freeways, major highways, or
truck haul routes.
» Policy N 6-3: Continue to work with the California
Department of Transportation (Caltrans) to install,
maintain, and update freeway and highway rightsof-way buffers and sound walls. » Policy N 6-4: Work toward understanding and
reducing traffic noise in residential neighborhoods
with a focus on analyzing the effects of traffic noise
exposure throughout the City.
» Policy N 6-5: Establish and enforce designated truck
routes on specified arterial streets to minimize the
negative impacts to noise sensitive uses throughout
the City.
» Policy N 6-6: For future noise sensitive land uses
proposed within the 65 dBA Ldn noise contours, a
qualified acoustical consultant shall conduct a noise
analysis to determine appropriate measures are
implemented to meet the necessary exterior and
interior noise standards.
» Policy N 6-7: Enforce regulations that address noise
generated by motorcycles and support education
efforts to create awareness and encourage compliance
(such as posting signs along Ocean Boulevard).
» Policy N 6-8: Work with transit providers to evaluate and update fleet vehicle characteristics and
operations to minimize noise.
» Policy N 6-9: Encourage site planning and building
design measures that minimize the effects of traffic
noise in residential zones.
» Policy N 6-10: Evaluate the tone and pitch of
emergency vehicle sirens and truck backup sounds to
promote the least impactful approach.
» Policy N 6-11: Supoprt and promote the Air
Quality Management District’s (AQMD) program for
retirement of older vehicles, as they tend to generate
more noise than newer, more fuel-efficient vehicles.

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Service Layer Credits: Sources: Esri, HERE,
Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,
NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong
Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, ©
OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS
User Community
SOURCE: Esri (2016); LSA (2/2019)
I:\RDG1701\GIS\FutureTrafficNoiseContours_Regional.mxd (2/27/2019) City of Long Beach Noise Element Update
Future 2040 Traffic Noise Contours
LEGEND
Long Beach City Boundary
Future 2040 Traffic Noise Contours
55 dBA Ldn
60 dBA Ldn
65 dBA Ldn
70 dBA Ldn
75 dBA Ldn
80 dBA Ldn
85 dBA Ldn
Overview
0 0.75 1.5
MILES
Figure N-4, Future Traffic Noise Contours (2040) Overview (Detailed maps available in Appendix) 46 Noise Plan
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Table N-5: Allowable Noise Exposure from Transportation Sources Allowable noise exposure levels from transportation sources provided in Table N-5 are intended to be used as a guide to establish a pattern of land uses that minimizes exposure of residents to excessive noise. In areas where transportation noise is not the dominant noise source, refer to stationary and operational standards in the Noise Ordinance of the Long Beach Municipal Code.

Land Use Ldn (dBA)
PlaceType Uses Interior1,2 Exterior3
Open Space
Open Space (OS)
Playgrounds, neighborhood
parks
N/A 70
Golf Courses, riding stables,
water recreation, cemeteries

N/A N/A
Neighborhoods
Founding and Contemporary Neighborhood (N)
Multi-Family Residential-Low (MRF-L)
Multi-Family Residential-Moderate (MRF-M)
Single-family, duplex and
multiple-family
45 65
Mobile home park N/A 65
Mixed-Use
Neighborhood-Serving Center or Corridor – Low (NC-L)
Neighborhood-Serving Center or Corridor – Low (NC-M)
Transit-Oriented Development – Low (TOD-L)
Transit-Oriented Development – Moderate (TOD-M)
Single-family 45 65
Mobile home park N/A 65
Multiple-family, mixed-use 45 654
Transient lodging-motels, hotels 45 65
Sports arenas, outdoor spectator
sports

N/A N/A
Auditoriums, concert halls,
amphitheaters
45 N/A
Office buildings, business,
commercial and professional
50 N/A
Employment
Community Commercial (CC)
Industrial (I)
Neo-Industrial (NI)
Manufacturing, utilities,
agriculture

N/A N/A
Office buildings, business,
commercial and professional
50 N/A
Unique
Regional Serving Facility RSF)
Downtown (DT)
Waterfront (WF)
Schools, nursing homes, day care
facilities, hospitals, convalescent
facilities, dormitories
45 65
Government Facilities – offices,
fire stations, community
buildings
45 N/A
Places of Worship, churches 45 N/A
Libraries 45 N/A
Multiple-family, mixed-use 45 654
Utilities N/A N/A
Cemeteries N/A N/A
1 Interior habitable environment excludes bathrooms, closets, and corridors. 2 Interior noise standards shall be satisfied with windows in the closed position. Mechanical ventilation shall be provided per Uniform Building Code requirements.
3 Exterior noise level standard to be applied at outdoor activity areas (e.g., private yards, private patio, or balcony of a multifamily residence). Where the location of an outdoor activity area is unknown or not applicable, the noise standard shall be applied inside the property line of the receiving land use. 4 Within the NC-M, TOD-L, TOD-M, DT and WF PlaceType designations, exterior space standards apply only to common outdoor recreational areas.

Ldn = Day-Night Average Level
dBA = A-weighted decibels
N/A = Not Applicable
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Strategy No. 7 Promote multimodal mobility to reduce
noise generated from vehicular traffic.
» Policy N 7-1: Encourage the use of active
transportation modes (walking, bicycling), micromobility (electric vehicles) and transit as stipulated in the Mobility Element to minimize traffic noise in the
City.
» Policy N 7-2: Work with local and regional transit
agencies and businesses to provide transportation
services that reduce traffic and associated noise as
stipulated in the Mobility Element.
» Policy N 7-3: Evaluate private development proposals
to ensure provisions for multimodal mobility where
feasible.
» Policy N 7-4: Factor multimodal mobility as part of
decisions affecting use and priority of public rightsof-way.

Strategy No. 8 Implement street design and maintenance
practices to minimize vehicular noise impacts.
» Policy N 8-1: Employ noise mitigation practices,
as necessary, when designing future streets and
highways, and when improvements occur along
existing road segments. Mitigation measures should
emphasize the establishment of buffers or setbacks
between the arterial roadways and adjoining noisesensitive areas. » Policy N 8-2: Consider traffic calming design, such as “road diets,” traffic control measures, and low-noise
pavement surfaces that minimize motor vehicle
traffic noise.
» Policy N 8-3: Consider the noise impacts on adjacent
residential uses associated with establishing stop
signs or other traffic control or traffic calming devices. » Policy N 8-4: Maintain roadways so that the paving is in good condition to reduce noise-generating cracks,
bumps, and potholes and ensure steel plates are
properly installed where needed.
» Policy N 8-5: Consider using roadway sound
attenuation techniques for resurfacing projects that
use “quiet” pavement or noise-reducing rubberized
asphalt.

Rail
Noise from rail systems is localized, impacting
immediately adjacent communities. This section addresses noise management relative to rail systems within the
City. Currently, three main freight rail lines pass through the City that are operated by Burlington Northern Santa Fe Corporation (BNSF) Railway, Union Pacific Railroad
Company (UPRR), and Pacific Harbor Line Incorporated
(PHL). The rail lines run north-south through the west
side of the City, through the northwest corner of the City, around the neighborhood of North Long Beach.

In addition to freight activities, the Metro Blue Line which serves as public transit, is part of the Metro Rail System that runs north-south from Los Angeles to Long Beach,
traveling south via Long Beach Avenue, Willowbrook
Avenue, and Long Beach Boulevard to its final destination at the Long Beach Transit Gallery. The Metro Blue Line
operates daily, including all major holidays.

Railways in Long Beach serve the industrial sites located in the northwest and southwest sectors of the community and typically operate at 20-30 mph. The major source
of noise in trains operating in Long Beach is the diesel locomotive. The propulsion system includes a diesel
engine driving an electrical generator which in turn
provides power to the wheels. The water-cooling system
for the engine requires auxiliary equipment such as
cooling fans which are an additional source of noise. The separate sources of noise are: the exhaust, engine, fans, and wheel-to-rail noise.

Freeway interchange in Long Beach
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A unique source of noise in the locomotive is the horn
which produces the highest sound levels, up to about
115 dBA. Another noise source in a train is the rolling stock or vehicles being pulled by the locomotive. The noise
exposures produced by these vehicles is due primarily
to the interaction between the wheels and the rails. This noise will be dependent on the type and condition of
the railway and the suspension of the vehicle. Items such as welded track and hydraulic shock absorbers on the
wheel assemblies can produce significant (5-10 dBA) noise reductions. Other types of surface tracked vehicles, such as those used for rapid transit system, will produce lower noise emissions. Some residential neighborhoods near
active rail lines are impacted by noise from intermittent passing trains and associated rail and truck activities.

Strategy No. 9 Minimize train noise in residential areas and near noise-sensitive land uses.
» Policy N 9-1: Encourage noise-compatible land uses
and incorporate noise-reducing design features
within transit-oriented, mixed-use development near
rail corridors.
» Policy N 9-2: Encourage all active railroads within the City to schedule trains during daylight hours when
possible.
» Policy N 9-3: Encourage the rail operators, both
freight and passenger, to minimize the level of
noise produced by train movements and horn noise
within the City by reducing the number of night time
operations, improving vehicle system technology,
and developing improved sound barriers where
residences exist next to the track.
» Policy N 9-4: Work with rail operators to install and maintain noise mitigation features where operations
adversely impact existing or planned residential and
other noise-sensitive land uses.
» Policy N 9-5: Require future rail projects under the
City’s control to analyze noise impacts and to identify and incorporate noise and vibration reducing features
in the project design.
» Policy N 9-6: Work with Metro to provide that the
design and operation of the Blue Line tracks, crossings, and station area use approaches that will minimize
noise impacts associated with train operations on the
community.
» Policy N 9-7: Coordinate with affected agencies
including California Public Utilities Commission,
rail operators, and Federal Railroad Administration
to evaluate potential locations for Quiet Zone
improvements (reduced train horn areas) and
implement recommended safety improvements to
result in reduced need and frequency of train horn
use.
» Policy N 9-8: Explore Port to Alameda Corridor “Quiet Zone” implementation.
» Policy N 9-9: Continue to assess new methods and
apply appropriate technologies to reduce rail-related
noise such as application of sound-deadening
matting (as opposed to wood) leading to, from and
between the rails where public roads cross tracks in
residential areas.

Aircraft
The primary source of aircraft noise in Long Beach is from the Long Beach Airport, though other neighboring airports, including Los Angeles International, may also impact Long Beach residents. Operations at the Long Beach Airport
include commercial air carriers, commuter flights, industrial planes, charter flights, and other general aviation as well as emergency and police helicopter activities. Management
of aircraft and airport related noise impacts are within federal, state and/or local authority jurisdiction.

Federal regulations are through the Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA). The Caltrans Aeronautics Program
(CAP) administers the enforcement of federal airport
regulations in the state of California. CAP sets noise
guidelines for local airports. In addition, the state provides noise level guidelines for land uses surrounding airport and those within the airport land use plan with the main focus being interior noise level standards.

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In addition to the CAP, State law (Public Utilities Code Section 21670 et seq.) requires creation of county Airport Land Use Commissions (ALUCs). The ALUCs advise local
jurisdictions concerning coordination of airport and
land use planning for adjacent geographic areas in order to achieve orderly expansion of airports, reduction of
community exposure to excessive noise and elimination
of safety hazards associated with airport operations. The ALUCs prepare and adopt Comprehensive Airport Land
Use Plans (CLUPs). Local methods for regulation of noise impacts is through proactive land use planning. The
primary regulating tool for airport compatibility is the City of Long Beach compatibility ordinance. Chapter 16.43 of the City of Long Beach Municipal Code was established in 1995 giving the City one of the strictest noise-controlled airports in the United States. In 1990, out of concern over the proliferation of local airport noise control regulations, Congress passed the Airport Noise and Capacity Act,
giving noise control to the federal government and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). However, the City was able to work with the federal government and the FAA to retain the Ordinance, as “grandfathered” under the legislation. The Ordinance includes many details including, but not limited to, number of flights restrictions, maximum allowed noise exposure levels, a monetary violation process, incentives for quieter operations, and pilot education programs.

Federal Aviation Regulations, Part 150,
“Airport Noise Compatibility Planning”
As a means of implementing the Aviation Safety and
Noise Abatement Act, the FAA adopted Regulations on
Airport Noise Compatibility Planning Programs. The FAA
published noise and land use compatibility charts to be used for land use planning with respect to aircraft noise. An expanded version of this chart appears in Aviation Circular 150/5020-1 (dated August 5, 1983). These guidelines
represent recommendations to local authorities for
determining acceptability and permissibility of land uses.

The guidelines recommend a maximum amount of noise
exposure (in terms of the cumulative noise metric DNL)
that might be considered acceptable or compatible to
people in living and working areas. Residential land use is deemed acceptable for noise exposures up to 65 dB DNL.

The FAA permits substitution of CNEL for DNL in California.

Helicopter Operations
Helicopter noise, unlike that of fixed-wing aircraft, is associated with the sound generated by rotor blades
slapping against wind currents, not by the aircraft engine.

Improvements in rotor systems is the primary means of
reducing noise generated by helicopters. Even with noise suppression improvements, helicopter flight at 500 feet creates an audible sound that is especially noticeable at night. National “Fly Neighborly” guidelines are implemented voluntarily by most pilots, thereby reducing noise impacts, especially in the vicinity of residential neighborhoods and noise sensitive uses.

Long Beach Airport runway
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Strategy No. 10 While the operations of airports and
airport related uses are noisy by nature, the adverse effects of aircraft-related noise should be minimized.
» Policy N 10-1: Ensure that new development can
be made compatible with the noise environment by
using noise/land use compatibility standards and
the airport noise contour maps as guides to future
planning and development decisions.
» Policy N 10-2: When making land use decisions, give
careful consideration to the type and density of land
use and its cumulative impacts so that appropriate
decisions are made for the airport, its context, and its environment. Specific consideration should be given
for all development within two miles of an airport.
» Policy N 10-3: Support efforts of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other responsible agencies
to require the development of quieter aircraft.
» Policy N 10-4: Utilize information provided by the
Long Beach Airport Quarterly Environmental Reports,
specifically noise contours, to advise land owners of
special noise considerations associated with their
development.
» Policy N 10-5: Continue to work with the FAA, airport staff and aircraft operators to ensure that future
operations are in compliance with the City’s noise
goals, where possible.
» Policy N 10-6: Require private heliports/helistops to comply with the City noise ordinances and Federal
Aviation Administration standards.
» Policy N 10-7: Work with interest groups to reduce
helicopter noise impacts and direct helicopter
operators to perform any training exercises over
non-populated portions of the City, not over
residential areas.
» Policy N 10-8: Continue open communications with
citizens through continued outreach. Continued use
of WebTrak or a similar system will allow the ability
for residents to give feedback to the City on noise
impacts experienced such that further meaningful
communication can continue with Federal and
airport staff.
» Policy N 10-9: Continue to evaluate potential noise
impacts and compatibility through analysis and
mitigation required by the National Environmental
Policy Act (NEPA) and California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA).

Watercraft
Watercraft operation noise is a concern for noise sensitive receivers located near the City’s coast and waterways.

Watercraft noise levels vary greatly depending on the size of the engines and noise levels are magnified when improper muffling occurs. The Long Beach Marine Department has
the responsibility to regulate noise levels on the City’s coast and waterways. Typically, watercraft are divided into two general categories: personal watercraft and boats. Personal watercraft typically refer to non-motorized vessels such as kayaks and paddle boats as well as motorized vessels such as sea-doos and jet skis. Boats are typically divided into three sub-categories: man-powered boats such as
gondolas; sailboats which are wind-propelled; and motor boats. The motor boat category ranges from small fishing and ski boats to cruise liners and tug boats. In areas of low speed, boat noise is generally not a concern, with the use of proper mufflers.

Strategy No. 11 Minimize watercraft noise level impacts to residential areas and in other locations near noise-sensitive uses, where possible.
» Policy N 11-1: Continue to require the Long Beach
Parks, Recreation and Marine Department to enforce
the noise requirements within the California Harbors
and Navigation Code.

Watercraft in Rainbow Harbor
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» Policy N 11-2: Enforce speed limits near the coastline and on the existing water channels.
» Policy N 11-3: Continue communications with
the Marine Department on responding to and
documenting noise complaints.
» Policy N 11-4: Ensure that boat owners receive
information on proper noise management
practices, especially those leasing City slips or
with City-registered docks. Strategies include
informational signage and education.

Construction
Construction activities are a necessary and on-going
source of noise throughout all parts of the City. The
duration of construction noise ranges from a few hours to multiple months. Construction activities are regulated by the City’s Municipal Code, which limits typical construction activities to the daytime hours, except under special
circumstances. The type of construction equipment and
duration of activities greatly affect the amount of noise and vibration created. Activities include hauling materials, site preparation, grading, building erection, and other specialized construction activities.

Strategy No. 12 Minimize construction noise and vibration levels in residential areas and in other locations near noisesensitive uses where possible. » Policy N 12-1: Reduce construction, maintenance,
and nuisance noise at the source, when possible, to
reduce noise conflicts.
» Policy N 12-2: Limit the allowable hours for
construction activities and maintenance operations
near sensitive uses.
» Policy N 12-3: As part of the City’s Municipal Code,
establish noise levels standards based on PlaceType
and time of day, to which construction noise shall
conform.
» Policy N 12-4: Encourage off-site fabrication to
reduce needed onsite construction activities and
corresponding noise levels and duration.
» Policy N 12-5: Encourage the following construction
best practices:
• Schedule high-noise and vibration-producing
activities to a shorter window of time during the
day outside early morning hours to minimize
disruption to sensitive uses.
• Grading and construction contractors should
use equipment that generates lower noise and
vibration levels, such as rubber-tired equipment
rather than metal-tracked equipment.
• Construction haul truck and materials delivery
traffic should avoid residential areas whenever
feasible.
• The construction contractor should place
noise- and vibration-generating construction
equipment and locate construction staging areas
away from sensitive uses whenever feasible.
• The construction contractor should use on-site
electrical sources to power equipment rather
than diesel generators where feasible.

Construction of city hall
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• All residential units located within 500 ft of
a construction site should be sent a notice
regarding the construction schedule. A sign
legible at a distance of 50 ft should also be
posted at the construction site. All notices and
the signs should indicate the dates and durations
of construction activities, as well as provide
a telephone number for a “noise disturbance
coordinator.”
• A “noise disturbance coordinator” should be
established. The disturbance coordinator
should be responsible for responding to any
local complaints about construction noise. The
disturbance coordinator should determine the
cause of the noise complaint (e.g., starting too
early, bad muffler) and should be required to
implement reasonable measures to reduce noise
levels.
» Policy N 12-6: Continue to provide information
bulletins dispersing information on municipal code
requirements and recommended best practices.
» Policy N 12-7: Work together with the AQMD to
encourage the retirement of older construction
equipment in favor of newer, quieter, and less
polluting equipment.

Special Events
Long Beach provides a desirable setting for special events of many forms. These events include, but are not limited to, community festivals, runs/walks, citywide holiday
celebrations, Long Beach Grand Prix, Long Beach Marathon, Long Beach Lesbian and Gay Pride Parade and Celebration, Jazz Festival, and events hosted at the Queen Mary. Special events provide economic development and tourism,
however, with residents living in close proximity to these events, ensuring managed frequency and intensity of the noise from these events is a priority for the City. Long Beach strives for an informed, balanced approach to managing
the needs of these events while continuing to prioritize the wellbeing of residents.

Special event in Long Beach
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Strategy No. 13 Balance the needs of special events while prioritizing the well-being of residents.
» Policy N 13-1: Ensure consistency and clear
communication between the various City
departments involved in noise. Strategies may
include posting an online calendar of special events
and providing information bulletins.
» Policy N 13-2: Provide a efficient and standardized
process for Special Events permitting in order to
increase predictability for residents and applicants.
» Policy N 13-3: Implement and enforce procedures
related to noise level requirements for special events, and review procedures on an annual basis.
» Policy N 13-4: Communicate regularly with
residents about the Special Events that may impact
them through appropriate channels to increase
transparency and timely information.
» Policy N 13-5: Consider geographic distribution of
special events throughout the City by managing
frequency and intensity of events.
» Policy N 13-6: Stay up-to-date with sound mitigation
technology and noise assessment methods for
Special Events.

Environmental justice and
social equity
Environmental justice and social equity, as they relate to sound, are important aspects of planning for a healthy
noise environment for all residents of Long Beach. Creating a more equitable distribution of noise is one of the four primary goals of this Noise Element. Environmental
justice entails equitable treatment and enforcement of
environmental laws, regulations, and policies as they
may disproportionately affect marginalized groups. It
also emphasizes meaningful participation from affected
groups.

Strategy No. 14 Ensure meaningful participation in the
public process by all members of the community, especially historically excluded or marginalized groups.
» Policy N 14-1: Ensure that affected residents have the opportunity to participate in decisions that impact
their health.
» Policy N 14-2: Facilitate the involvement of residents, businesses, and organizations in all aspects of the
planning process.
» Policy N 14-3: Utilize culturally appropriate
approaches to public participation and involvement.

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» Policy N 14-4: Identify those areas of the City most
vulnerable to environmental hazards through
CalEnviroScreen, the Environmental Justice Screening
Model (EJSM) or other model.

Strategy No. 15 Reduce the disproportionate
environmental noise burdens affecting low-income and
minority populations.
» Policy N 15-1: Require that proposals for new
sensitive land uses are located adequate distances
from freeways and major roadways based on an
analysis of physical and meteorological conditions at
the project site.
» Policy N 15-2: Require that proposals for new
sensitive land uses incorporate adequate setbacks,
barriers, landscaping, or other measures as necessary
to minimize noise impacts.
» Policy N 15-3: Provide adequate buffers between
schools and industrial facilities and transportation
corridors.
» Policy N 15-4: Require that zoning regulations
provide adequate separation and buffering of
residential and industrial uses.
» Policy N 15-5: Ensure that low-income and minority
populations understand the effect of projects with
noise impacts.
» Policy N 15-6: Initiate outreach efforts as early as
possible in the decision-making process before
significant resources have been invested in a
particular outcome.
» Policy N 15-7: Support traffic and highway
techniques and technologies that reduce noise
impacts of vehicular traffic through traffic calming,
noise barriers, pavement design and other measures.

Noise Management
Long Beach makes a continual effort to regulate noise and create buffers from sources of noise to surrounding sensitive receptors and land uses. Enforcement of regulations is
ongoing, and efforts are made to inform the public through a variety of means, such as through information bulletins.

One method of imposing noise regulations is through the enforcement of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Through the review of projects in compliance with CEQA, noise mitigation measures are prescribed through
approved Mitigation and Monitoring Programs to limit
excessive noise. The CEQA process provides a tailored
environmental analysis to address project-specific impacts and individual context.

Noise mitigations are typically divided into measures
addressing construction activities and measures addressing project design and operation. For construction noise,
potential mitigation measures include equipment mufflers, quieter models of air compressors, locating stationary
noise-generating equipment farther from sensitive
receptors, no unnecessary idling of internal combustion equipment, routing construction-related traffic away from sensitive receptors, hours of loading/unloading, 150-foot radius noticing for construction activities, establishing a construction liaison to respond to noise complaints and provide corrections, provision of temporary noise barriers or blankets, and site-specific vibration mitigation.

For project design and operation noise mitigation, potential mitigation measures include appropriate site planning
(for example, locating shared residential spaces behind buildings to reduce noise exposure), mechanical ventilation in residential areas in higher noise areas to allow for closed windows if desired, installation of sound-rated windows and construction methods, strategic placement of loading/ unloading areas, placement of HVAC in mechanical rooms
whenever possible, and provision of localized noise barriers or rooftop parapets around mechanical equipment.

Strategy No. 16 Continue to actively enhance the
regulation and management of noise to improve
procedures and minimize noise impacts.
» Policy N 16-1: Create a one-stop shop for noise
concerns of all types to streamline processes, obtain
information and report complaints.

Noise Plan | Creating Livable Environments 55
Noise Plan
5 DRAFT October 2022
» Policy N 16-2: Explore implementation of a noise
reporting app in collaboration with existing platforms
such as Go Long Beach.
» Policy N 16-3: Develop a framework for improved
inter-agency coordination such as with the Federal
Rail Administration, Federal Highway Administration,
Federal Aviation Administration, and California
Department of Motor Vehicles.
» Policy N 16-4: Compile best noise mitigation
practices for key industries (such as special events,
bars/entertainment, industrial and commercial uses,
and construction practices).
» Policy N 16-5: Update the Noise Ordinance to carry
out the Noise Element and periodically update based
on community input and updates in technology and
best practices.
» Policy N 16-6: Regularly evaluate and update
strategies for management of nuisance noise such as:
• Updating leaf blower requirements to encourage
use of electric leaf blowers versus gas-powered
machines.
• Enhancing methods for managing animal noise
(such as from dogs and birds).
• Improving communications and enforcement
for house parties and other neighborhood
disturbances.
• Support business owners by providing
information on useful tools and best practices
and clarifying requirements.
» Policy N 16-7: Evaluate the development of a
mitigation program to provide sound-attenuating
improvements (such as updated windows) to older
buildings and residences using funds from noise
fines, grants or other sources.
» Policy N 16-8: Ensure adequate resources are
provided for enforcement of City noise regulations.
» Policy N 16-9: Improve communications regarding
noise regulations and processes through City
website features, information bulletins, and reporting
procedures.

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Administration +
Implementation
Maintaining the Noise Element
“I have been impressed with the urgency of doing. Knowing is not enough; we must apply. Being willing is not enough; we must do.” Leonardo da Vinci
Italian Artist, Scientist, and Inventor
6 6 Administration +
Implementation
Maintaining the Noise Element
Administration 59
Implementation 59
Administration + Implementation | Maintaining the Noise Element 59 6Imple Administration + mentation
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Administration
The Noise Element provides the highest level of noise
guidance on a citywide basis. It provides guidance that will be implemented through the Municipal Code, zoning, public project consistency, development review process
and interagency coordination. The Noise Element further implements the PlaceType approach established in the
Land Use Element and interrelates with policies with
the broader Long Beach General Plan, especially those
established in the Mobility Element, Housing Element,
Urban Design Element and Open Space Element.

State law allows amendments to the Noise Element.

Amendments may be periodically initiated by staff, the
Planning Commission, City Council or a property owner.

State mandated elements, including the Noise Element, can only be amended four times per calendar year. However,
more than one change may be considered at each of these four opportunities. General Plan Amendments are adopted by resolution and approved immediately upon adoption of the resolution.

Implementation
To effectively implement the goals, strategies and policies of the Noise Element, implementing measures must be
reflective of local needs and carried out as an integrated program of complementary and mutually reinforcing
actions. Measures should be specific enough to implement the goals of the General Plan, while maintaining adaptability to allow flexibility in implementation throughout the
timeline of the General Plan.

The City is committed to regularly reviewing progress toward implementing the goals, policies and implementation
measures of the Noise Element. Since many of the factors and issues that the Element addresses change from time
to time, a review and progress report that is prepared
every two to three years will help ensure the City is
moving forward to achieve the Noise Plan’s vision and bold moves. This review will describe the status of each specific implementation strategy outlined. The review will also take into account the availability of new implementation tools and feedback from monitoring activities.

Noise Element policies are implemented through a variety of implementation tools including:
» Zoning (location of land uses, especially near sensitive receptors)
» Noise Ordinance
» Development Review (project design)
» Building and Housing Codes
» California Environmental Quality Act/National
Environmental Protection Act
» Consistency in Implementation (General Plan findings
for zoning, subdivisions, specific plans, capital
improvement projects)
» City Noise Procedures/Management
» Interagency Coordination
» Enforcement and Remedies
» Periodic Progress Reports
Table N-6 summarizes Noise Element strategies and
related policies from Chapter 5 (Noise Plan) and identifies responsible departments and the time frames to complete implementation strategies.
» Responsible Department(s). The lead City department
which has primary responsibility for completion of a
program will be listed. If any additional departments
or external agencies are involved in a critical or
supporting role, they are also listed.
» Time Frame. A time frame for existing and proposed
(new) strategies and programs will be identified.

Many strategies operate on an ongoing basis and
are indicated as such. The timelines presented are
only an estimate and may not occur as indicated
due to unforeseen events, changes in funding, or
City operations. Time frames are defined generally as
follows:
• Short-term = 0-5 years
• Mid-term = 5-10 years
• Long-term = 10-20 years
• Ongoing = May require short-, mid-, and
long-term actions
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Policy
Number Implementation Strategies
Time Frames
ShorttermMidtermLongterm Ongoing
Strategy No. 1: Apply site planning and other design strategies to reduce noise impacts, especially within the Founding and Contemporary Neighborhoods, Multifamily Residential—Low and Moderate, and Neighborhood-Serving Centers and Corridors – Low and Moderate PlaceTypes.

N 1-1 Integrate noise considerations into the land use planning process in order to prevent new land use noise conflicts.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 1-2 Require noise attenuation measures to be incorporated into all development and redevelopment of sensitive receptor uses, including residential, health care facilities, schools, libraries, senior facilities, and churches in close proximity to existing or known planned rail lines.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 1-3 Ensure development and redevelopment is considerate of the natural shape and contours of a site in order to reduce noise impacts.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 1-4 Encourage developers or landowners to incorporate noise reduction features in the site planning process.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 1-5 Incorporate urban design strategies such as courtyards, paseos, alleys, plazas and open space areas to provide a buffer to noise sensitive uses.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 1-6 Ensure that project site design and function minimize the potential adverse impacts of noise.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 1-7 Encourage educational facilities to locate playgrounds, sports fields, and other outdoor activity areas away from residential areas.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 1-8 Require new development to provide facilities which support the use of multimodal transportation, including, walking, bicycling, carpooling and, transit.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 1-9 Utilize noise barriers after all practical design-related noise measures have been integrated into the project. In instances where sound walls are necessary, they should be incorporated into the architectural and site character of the development and pedestrian access should be integrated.

Responsible Department: Development Services
Supporting Department: Public Works
•
Strategy No. 2: Create a balance of business practices within dynamic, active, and engaging areas such as the Transit-Oriented Development – Low and Moderate, Downtown, and Waterfront PlaceType areas to promote activity while respecting adjacent sensitive uses.

N 2-1 Ensure that developments located in commercial or entertainment areas do not exceed stationary-source noise standards at the property line of proximate residential or commercial uses.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 2-2 Require mitigation measures for new high-generating uses adjacent to sensitive receptors.

Responsible Department: Development Services •
N 2-3 Require that high-generating uses engage in responsible management and operation to control the activities of their patrons on-site and within reasonable and legally justifiable proximity to minimize noise impacts on adjacent residences.

Responsible Department: Development Services
Supporting Departments: Police, Health and Human Services •
Table N-6: Implementation Matrix
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Policy
Number Implementation Strategies
Time Frames
ShorttermMidtermLongterm Ongoing
N 2-4 Develop, update and apply best practices for restaurants, bars and retail establishments with evening activities to ensure compatibility such as limitations on hours, location of trash/recycling, policies for rooftop activities, and communications with neighboring residents and businesses.

Responsible Department: Development Services
Supporting Departments: Police, Health and Human Services • •
Strategy No. 3: Capitalize on urban design techniques and business operation strategies within business and employment center PlaceTypes (Community Commercial, Industrial, Neo-Industrial, Regional-Serving Facility, Port of Long Beach) to minimize noise impacts on surrounding adjacent uses.

N 3-1 Provide sufficient spatial separation between industrial uses and sensitive receptors. Utilize mitigation measures where feasible to reduce the noise source, such as noise attenuation methods, interrupting the noise path, or insulating the receptor to minimize the exposure of noise-sensitive uses to excessive industrial-related noise.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 3-2 Ensure new industrial uses are in compliance with the City’s Noise Ordinance.

Responsible Department: Development Services •
N 3-3 Encourage industrial and commercial activities to restrict their receiving operations to daytime periods.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 3-4 Enforce established hours and routes for delivery trucks and truck traffic.

Responsible Department: Police •
N 3-5 Where sensitive receptors are located adjacent to industrial uses, reduce noise impacts through the use of noise barriers, restriction of operating hours, and investment in noise cancelling technology.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 3-6 Mitigate off-site impacts from port operations and consider development of grant programs for off-site port-related noise mitigations.

Responsible Department: Development Services
Supporting Department: Harbor Department
•
Strategy No. 4: Protext and buffer noise sensitive areas and uses through effective building design and material selection.

N 4-1 Encourage developers to utilize noise absorbing building materials.

Responsible Department: Development Services •
N 4-2 In mixed-use developments, locate and orient residential units away from noise sources associated with other uses on the site.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 4-3 In mixed-use developments, locate residential balconies and windows away from the primary street and from other uses on the site.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 4-4 In mixed-use developments, require techniques to prevent the transfer of noise and vibration to the residential uses on the site.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 4-5 Encourage building design that incorporates varying and/or angled wall articulation to disperse noise.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 4-6 Promote building design best practices such as staggering wall studs to minimize transmission of noise between rooms.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 4-7 Consider use of decorative walls and/or dense landscaping to further buffer noise between uses.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
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Policy
Number Implementation Strategies
Time Frames
ShorttermMidtermLongterm Ongoing
Strategy No. 5: Implement best practices to reduce impacts of noise from industrial sources N 5-1 In observance of requirements imposed by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), limit the idling of heavy trucks during night time hours to less than five minutes.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 5-2 Where feasible, require equipment enclosures for pumps and compressors that exceed Municipal Code noise standards.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 5-3 Encourage conduction of high-noise or high-vibration activities in a set window or time during the day.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 5-4 Industrial facility owners and/or operators should use equipment that generates lower noise and vibration levels, such as rubber-tired equipment rather than metal-tracked equipment.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 5-5 Commercial delivery truck traffic should avoid residential areas whenever feasible.

Responsible Department: Development Services •
N 5-6 Site design should consider sensitive receptor locations and place noise sources away from these uses when feasible.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 5-7 Encourage industrial operations to utilize on-site electrical sources to power equipment rather than diesel generators where feasible.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
Strategy No. 6: Minimize vehicular traffic noise in residential areas and near noise-sensitive land uses.

N 6-1 Ensure noise-compatible land uses along existing and future roadways, highways, and freeways.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 6-2 Use the “Land Use Compatibility Guidelines” and established Noise Standards or other measures that are acceptable to the City, to guide land use and zoning reclassification, subdivision, conditional use and use variance determinations and environmental assessment considerations, especially relative to sensitive uses, as defined by this chapter within a line-of-sight of freeways, major highways, or truck haul routes.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 6-3 Continue to work with the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) to install, maintain, and update freeway and highway rights-of-way buffers and sound walls.

Responsible Department: Public Works
Outside Agency: Caltrans
•
N 6-4 Work toward understanding and reducing traffic noise in residential neighborhoods with a focus on analyzing the effects of traffic noise exposure throughout the City.

Responsible Department: Public Works
•
N 6-5 Establish and enforce designated truck routes on specified arterial streets to minimize the negative impacts to noise sensitive uses throughout the City.

Responsible Department: Development Services
Supporting Departments: Public Works, Police
• •
N 6-6 For future noise sensitive land uses proposed within the 65 dBA CNEL noise contours, a qualified acoustical consultant shall conduct a noise analysis to determine appropriate measures are implemented to meet the necessary exterior and interior noise standards.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 6-7 Enforce regulations that address noise generated by motorcycles and support education efforts to create awareness and encourage compliance (such as posting signs along Ocean Boulevard).

Responsible Department: Police
Supporting Department: City Manager
•
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Policy
Number Implementation Strategies
Time Frames
ShorttermMidtermLongterm Ongoing
N 6-8 Work with transit providers to evaluate and update fleet vehicle characteristics and operations to minimize noise.

Responsible Department: Public Works
Supporting Department: Long Beach Transit
•
N 6-9 Encourage site planning and building design measures that minimize the effects of traffic noise in residential zones.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 6-10 Evaluate the tone and pitch of emergency vehicle sirens and truck backup sounds to promote the least impactful approach.

Responsible Department: Development Services
Supporting Departments: Police, Fire
• •
N 6-11 Supoprt and promote the Air Quality Management District’s (AQMD) program for retirement of older vehicles, as they tend to generate more noise than newer, more fuel-efficient vehicles.

Responsible Department: City Manager
• •
Strategy No. 7: Promote multimodal mobility to reduce noise generated from vehicular traffic.

N 7-1 Encourage the use of active transportation modes (walking, bicycling), micro-mobility (electric vehicles) and transit as stipulated in the Mobility Element to minimize traffic noise in the City.

Responsible Department: Development Services
Supporting Department: Public Works
•
N 7-2 Work with local and regional transit agencies and businesses to provide transportation services that reduce traffic and associated noise as stipulated in the Mobility Element.

Responsible Department: Development Services
Supporting Department: Public Works
•
N 7-3 Evaluate private development proposals to ensure provisions for multimodal mobility where feasible.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 7-4 Factor multimodal mobility as part of decisions affecting use and priority of public rightsof-way.

Responsible Department: Public Works
Supporting Department: Development Services
•
Strategy No. 8: Implement street design and maintenance practices to minimize vehicular noise impacts.

N 8-1 Employ noise mitigation practices, as necessary, when designing future streets and highways, and when improvements occur along existing road segments. Mitigation measures should emphasize the establishment of buffers or setbacks between the arterial roadways and adjoining noise-sensitive areas.

Responsible Department: Development Services
Supporting Department: Public Works
•
N 8-2 Consider traffic calming design, such as “road diets,” traffic control measures, and low-noise pavement surfaces that minimize motor vehicle traffic noise.

Responsible Department: Public Works
Supporting Department: Development Services
•
N 8-3 Consider the noise impacts on adjacent residential uses associated with establishing stop signs or other traffic control or traffic calming devices.

Responsible Department: Public Works
Supporting Department: Development Services
•
N 8-4 Maintain roadways so that the paving is in good condition to reduce noise-generating cracks, bumps, and potholes and ensure steel plates are properly installed where needed.

Responsible Department: Public Works
Supporting Department: Development Services
•
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Policy
Number Implementation Strategies
Time Frames
ShorttermMidtermLongterm Ongoing
N 8-5 Consider using roadway sound attenuation techniques for resurfacing projects that use “quiet” pavement or noise-reducing rubberized asphalt.

Responsible Department: Public Works
Supporting Department: Development Services
•
Strategy No. 9: Minimize train noise in residential areas and near noise-sensitive land uses.

N 9-1 Encourage noise-compatible land uses and incorporate noise-reducing design features within transit-oriented, mixed-use development near rail corridors.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 9-2 Encourage all active railroads within the City to schedule trains during daylight hours when possible.

Responsible Department: Public Works
•
N 9-3 Encourage the rail operators, both freight and passenger, to minimize the level of noise produced by train movements and horn noise within the City by reducing the number of night time operations, improving vehicle system technology, and developing improved sound barriers where residences exist next to the track.

Responsible Department: Public Works
Supporting Department: Development Services
•
N 9-4 Work with rail operators to install and maintain noise mitigation features where operations adversely impact existing or planned residential and other noise-sensitive land uses.

Responsible Department: Development Services
Supporting Department: Public Works
•
N 9-5 Require future rail projects under the City’s control to analyze noise impacts and to identify and incorporate noise and vibration reducing features in the project design.

Responsible Department: Public Works
•
N 9-6 Work with Metro to provide that the design and operation of the Blue Line tracks, crossings, and station area use approaches that will minimize noise impacts associated with train operations on the community.

Responsible Department: Public Works
Supporting Department: Development Services
• •
N 9-7 Coordinate with affected agencies including California Public Utilities Commission, rail operators, and Federal Railroad Administration to evaluate potential locations for Quiet Zone improvements (reduced train horn areas) and implement recommended safety improvements to result in reduced need and frequency of train horn use.

Responsible Department: Public Works
•
N 9-8 Explore Port to Alameda Corridor “Quiet Zone” implementation.

Responsible Department: Public Works
Supporting Department: Harbor
•
N 9-9 Continue to assess new methods and apply appropriate technologies to reduce rail-related noise such as application of sound-deadening matting (as opposed to wood) leading to, from and between the rails where public roads cross tracks in residential areas.

Responsible Department: Public Works
•
Strategy No. 10: While the operations of airports and airport related uses are noisy by nature, the adverse effects of aircraft-related noise should be minimized.

N 10-1 Ensure that new development can be made compatible with the noise environment by using noise/land use compatibility standards and the airport noise contour maps as guides to future planning and development decisions.

Responsible Department: Development Services
Supporting Department: Long Beach Airport
•
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Policy
Number Implementation Strategies
Time Frames
ShorttermMidtermLongterm Ongoing
N 10-2 When making land use decisions, give careful consideration to the type and density of land use and its cumulative impacts so that appropriate decisions are made for the airport, its context, and its environment. Specific consideration should be given for all development within two miles of an airport.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 10-3 Support efforts of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and other responsible agencies to require the development of quieter aircraft.

Responsible Department: Long Beach Airport
•
N 10-4 Utilize information provided by the Long Beach Airport Quarterly Environmental Reports, specifically noise contours, to advise land owners of special noise considerations associated with their development.

Responsible Department: Long Beach Airport
•
N 10-5 Continue to work with the FAA, airport staff and aircraft operators to ensure that future operations are in compliance with the City’s noise goals, where possible.

Responsible Department: Long Beach Airport
•
N 10-6 Require private heliports/helistops to comply with the City noise ordinances and Federal Aviation Administration standards.

Responsible Department: Long Beach Airport
Supporting Department: Police
•
N 10-7 Work with interest groups to reduce helicopter noise impacts and direct helicopter operators to perform any training exercises over non-populated portions of the City, not over residential areas.

Responsible Department: Long Beach Airport
Supporting Department: City Manager
•
N 10-8 Continue open communications with citizens through continued outreach. Continued use of WebTrak or a similar system will allow the ability for residents to give feedback to the City on noise impacts experienced such that further meaningful communication can continue with Federal and airport staff.

Supporting Department: Long Beach Airport
•
N 10-9 Continue to evaluate potential noise impacts and compatibility through analysis and mitigation required by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
Strategy No. 11: Minimize watercraft noise level impacts to residential areas and in other locations near noise-sensitive uses, where possible.

N 11-1 Continue to require the Long Beach Parks, Recreation and Marine Department to enforce the noise requirements within the California Harbors and Navigation Code.

Responsible Department: Parks, Recreation and Marine
Supporting Department: Harbor
•
N 11-2 Enforce speed limits near the coastline and on the existing water channels.

Responsible Department: Parks, Recreation and Marine
Supporting Department: Harbor
•
N 11-3 Continue communications with the Marine Department on responding to and documenting noise complaints.

Responsible Department: Health and Human Services
Supporting Departments: Parks, Recreation and Marine, Harbor •
N 11-4 Ensure that boat owners receive information on proper noise management practices, especially those leasing City slips or with City-registered docks. Strategies include informational signage and education.

Responsible Department: Parks, Recreation and Marine
• •
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Policy
Number Implementation Strategies
Time Frames
ShorttermMidtermLongterm Ongoing
Strategy No. 12: Minimize construction noise and vibration levels in residential areas and in other locations near noise-sensitive uses where possible.

N 12-1 Reduce construction, maintenance, and nuisance noise at the source, when possible, to reduce noise conflicts.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 12-2 Limit the allowable hours for construction activities and maintenance operations near sensitive uses.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 12-3 As part of the City’s Municipal Code, establish noise levels standards based on PlaceType and time of day, to which construction noise shall conform.

Responsible Department: Development Services
• •
N 12-4 Encourage off-site fabrication to reduce needed onsite construction activities and corresponding noise levels and duration.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 12-5 Encourage the following construction best practices:
• Schedule high-noise and vibration-producing activities to a shorter window of time during the day outside early morning hours to minimize disruption to sensitive uses. • Grading and construction contractors should use equipment that generates lower noise and vibration levels, such as rubber-tired equipment rather than metal-tracked equipment.
• Construction haul truck and materials delivery traffic should avoid residential areas whenever feasible.
• The construction contractor should place noise- and vibration-generating construction equipment and locate construction staging areas away from sensitive uses whenever feasible.
• All residential units located within 500 ft of a construction site should be sent a notice regarding the construction schedule. A sign legible at a distance of 50 ft should also be posted at the construction site. All notices and the signs should indicate the dates and durations of construction activities, as well as provide a telephone number for a “noise disturbance coordinator.”
• A “noise disturbance coordinator” should be established. The disturbance coordinator should be responsible for responding to any local complaints about construction noise. The disturbance coordinator should determine the cause of the noise complaint (e.g., starting too early, bad muffler) and should be required to implement reasonable measures to reduce noise levels.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 12-6 Continue to provide information bulletins dispersing information on municipal code requirements and recommended best practices.

Responsible Department: Health and Human Services
Supporting Departments: Development Services, City Manager •
N 12-7 Work together with the AQMD to encourage the retirement of older construction equipment in favor of newer, quieter, and less polluting equipment.

Responsible Department: City Manager
Supporting Department: Development Services
• •
Strategy No. 13: Balance the needs of special events while prioritizing the well-being of residents.

N 13-1 Ensure consistency and clear communication between the various City departments involved in noise. Strategies may include posting an online calendar of special events and providing information bulletins.

Responsible Department: City Manager
Supporting Department: Health and Human Services
• •
N 13-2 Provide a efficient and standardized process for special events permitting in order to increase predictability for residents and applicants.

Responsible Department: City Manager
•
N 13-3 Implement and enforce procedures related to noise level requirements for special events, and review procedures on an annual basis.

Responsible Department: City Manager
Supporting Departments: Health and Human Services, Police •
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Policy
Number Implementation Strategies
Time Frames
ShorttermMidtermLongterm Ongoing
N 13-4 Communicate regularly with residents about the special events that may impact them through appropriate channels to increase transparency and timely information.

Responsible Department: City Manager
•
N 13-5 Communicate regularly with residents about the special events that may impact them through appropriate channels to increase transparency and timely information.

Responsible Department: City Manager
•
N 13-6 Stay up-to-date with sound mitigation technology for special events.

Responsible Department: City Manager
Supporting Department: Health and Human Services
•
Strategy No. 14: Ensure meaningful participation in the public process by all members of the community, especially historically excluded or marginalized groups.

N 14-1 Ensure that affected residents have the opportunity to participate in decisions that impact their health.

Responsible Department: Development Services
Supporting Departments: City Manager, Health and Human Services •
N 14-2 Facilitate the involvement of residents, businesses, and organizations in all aspects of the planning process.

Responsible Department: Development Services
Supporting Departments: City Manager, Health and Human Services •
N 14-3 Utilize culturally appropriate approaches to public participation and involvement.

Responsible Department: Development Services
Supporting Departments: City Manager, Health and Human Services •
N 14-4 Identify those areas of the City most vulnerable to environmental hazards through CalEnviroScreen, the Environmental Justice Screening Model (EJSM) or other model.

Responsible Department: Development Services
Supporting Department: Health and Human Services
•
Strategy No. 15: Reduce the disproportionate environmental noise burdens affecting low-income and minority populations.

N 15-1 Require that proposals for new sensitive land uses are located adequate distances from freeways and major roadways based on an analysis of physical and meteorological conditions at the project site.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 15-2 Require that proposals for new sensitive land uses incorporate adequate setbacks, barriers, landscaping, or other measures as necessary to minimize noise impacts.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 15-3 Provide adequate buffers between schools and industrial facilities and transportation corridors.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 15-4 Require that zoning regulations provide adequate separation and buffering of residential and industrial uses.

Responsible Department: Development Services
•
N 15-5 Ensure that low-income and minority populations understand the effect of projects with noise impacts.

Responsible Department: Development Services
Supporting Department: Public Works
•
N 15-6 Initiate outreach efforts as early as possible in the decision-making process before significant resources have been invested in a particular outcome.

Responsible Department: Development Services
Supporting Department: Public Works
•
N 15-7 Support traffic and highway techniques and technologies that reduce noise impacts of vehicular traffic through traffic calming, noise barriers, pavement design and other measures.

Responsible Department: Public Works
Supporting Department: Development Services
•
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Policy
Number Implementation Strategies
Time Frames
ShorttermMidtermLongterm Ongoing
Strategy No. 16: Continue to actively enhance the regulation and management of noise to improve procedures and minimize noise impacts.

N 16-1 Create a one-stop shop for noise concerns of all types to streamline processes, obtain information and report complaints.

Responsible Department: Health and Human Services
Supporting Departments: City Manager, Police, Development Services •
N 16-2 Explore implementation of a noise reporting app in collaboration with existing platforms such as Go Long Beach.

Responsible Department: Health and Human Services
Supporting Departments: City Manager
•
N 16-3 Develop a framework for improved inter-agency coordination such as with the Federal Rail Administration, Federal Highway Administration, Federal Aviation Administration, and California Department of Motor Vehicles.

Responsible Department: Public Works
Supporting Department: Development Services
•
N 16-4 Compile best noise mitigation practices for key industries (such as special events, bars/ entertainment, industrial and commercial uses, and construction practices).

Responsible Department: City Manager
Supporting Department: Development Services
•
N 16-5 Update the Noise Ordinance to carry out the Noise Element and periodically update based on community input and updates in technology and best practices.

Responsible Department: Development Services
• •
N 16-6 Regularly evaluate and update strategies for management of nuisance noise such as:
• Updating leaf blower requirements to encourage use of electric leaf blowers versus gas-powered machines.
• Enhancing methods for managing animal noise (such as from dogs and birds). • Improving communications and enforcement for house parties and other neighborhood disturbances.
• Support business owners by providing information on useful tools and best practices and clarifying requirements.

Responsible Department: Development Services
Supporting Departments: Health and Human Services, Police •
N 16-7 Evaluate the development of a mitigation program to provide sound-attenuating improvements (such as updated windows) to older buildings and residences using funds from noise fines, grants or other sources.

Responsible Department: Development Services
Supporting Department: Health and Human Services
•
N 16-8 Ensure adequate resources are provided for enforcement of City noise regulations.

Responsible Department: Health and Human Services
Supporting Department: Police
•
N 16-9 Improve communications regarding noise regulations and processes through City website features, information bulletins, and reporting procedures.

Responsible Department: Health and Human Services
Supporting Departments: City Manager, Development Services • •
Appendix 7
“Cities have the capability of providing something
for everybody, only because, and only when, they
are created by everybody.”
Jane Jacobs
Urbanist, Author - The Death and Life of Great
American Cities
7 Appendix
Future Traffic Noise Contours (2040) 63
Appendix | Noise Contours 71
7Appendix
DRAFT October 2022
Service Layer Credits: Sources: Esri, HERE,
Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,
NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong
Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, ©
OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS
User Community
1 3
2 4
SOURCE: Esri (2016); LSA (2/2019)
LEGEND
Long Beach City Boundary
Future 2040 Traffic Noise Contours
55 dBA Ldn
60 dBA Ldn
65 dBA Ldn
70 dBA Ldn
75 dBA Ldn
80 dBA Ldn
0 1 2 85 dBA Ldn
MILES
72 Noise Element | City of Long Beach
Appendix
7 DRAFT October 2022
Service Layer Credits: Sources: Esri, HERE,
Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,
NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong
Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, ©
OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS
User Community
SOURCE: Esri (2016); LSA (5/2017, 2/2019)
0 2000 4000
FEET
LEGEND
Long Beach City Boundary
Long Beach City Centerlines
Future 2040 Traffic Noise Contours
55 dBA Ldn
60 dBA Ldn
65 dBA Ldn
70 dBA Ldn
75 dBA Ldn
80 dBA Ldn
85 dBA Ldn
1 3
2 4
Appendix | Noise Contours 73
7Appendix
DRAFT October 2022
Service Layer Credits: Sources: Esri, HERE,
Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,
NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong
Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, ©
OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS
User Community
SOURCE: Esri (2016); LSA (5/2017, 2/2019) 0 2000 4000
FEET
LEGEND
Long Beach City Boundary
Long Beach City Centerlines
Future 2040 Traffic Noise Contours
55 dBA Ldn
60 dBA Ldn
65 dBA Ldn
70 dBA Ldn
75 dBA Ldn
80 dBA Ldn
85 dBA Ldn
13 24
74 Noise Element | City of Long Beach
Appendix
7 DRAFT October 2022
Service Layer Credits: Sources: Esri, HERE,
Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,
NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong
Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, ©
OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS
User Community
SOURCE: Esri (2016); LSA (5/2017, 2/2019)
0 2000 4000
FEET
LEGEND
Long Beach City Boundary
Long Beach City Centerlines
Future 2040 Traffic Noise Contours
55 dBA Ldn
60 dBA Ldn
65 dBA Ldn
70 dBA Ldn
75 dBA Ldn
80 dBA Ldn
85 dBA Ldn
1 3
2 4
Appendix | Noise Contours 75
7Appendix
DRAFT October 2022
Service Layer Credits: Sources: Esri, HERE,
Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,
NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong
Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, ©
OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS
User Community
SOURCE: Esri (2016); LSA (5/2017, 2/2019)
0 2000 4000
FEET
LEGEND
Long Beach City Boundary
Long Beach City Centerlines
Future 2040 Traffic Noise Contours
55 dBA Ldn
60 dBA Ldn
65 dBA Ldn
70 dBA Ldn
75 dBA Ldn
80 dBA Ldn
85 dBA Ldn
1 3
2 4
76 Noise Element | City of Long Beach
Appendix
7 DRAFT October 2022
Service Layer Credits: Sources: Esri, HERE,
Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,
NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong
Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, ©
OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS
User Community
13 9 10
5 6
1 2
14 11 12
7 8
3 4
SOURCE: Esri (2016); LSA (5/2017, 2/2019)
LEGEND
Long Beach City Boundary
Future 2040 Traffic Noise Contours
65 dBA Ldn
0 1 2 70 dBA Ldn
MILES
Appendix | Noise Contours 77
7Appendix
DRAFT October 2022
Service Layer Credits: Sources: Esri, HERE,
Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,
NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong
Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, ©
OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS
User Community
SOURCE: Esri (2016); LSA (5/2017, 2/2019)
LEGEND
Long Beach City Boundary
Long Beach City Centerlines
Future 2040 Traffic Noise Contours
65 dBA Ldn
70 dBA Ldn
13 9 10 5 6 1 2
14 11 12 7 8 3 4
0 1000 2000
FEET
78 Noise Element | City of Long Beach
Appendix
7 DRAFT October 2022
Service Layer Credits: Sources: Esri, HERE,
Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,
NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong
Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, ©
OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS
User Community
SOURCE: Esri (2016); LSA (5/2017, 2/2019)
LEGEND
Long Beach City Boundary
Long Beach City Centerlines
Future 2040 Traffic Noise Contours
65 dBA Ldn
70 dBA Ldn
13 9 10
5 6
1 2
14 11 12
7 8
3 4
0 1000 2000
FEET
Appendix | Noise Contours 79
7Appendix
DRAFT October 2022
Service Layer Credits: Sources: Esri, HERE,
Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,
NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong
Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, ©
OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS
User Community
SOURCE: Esri (2016); LSA (5/2017, 2/2019)
LEGEND
Long Beach City Boundary
Long Beach City Centerlines
Future 2040 Traffic Noise Contours
65 dBA Ldn
70 dBA Ldn
13 9 10 5 6 1 2
14 11 12 7 8 3 4
0 1000 2000
FEET
80 Noise Element | City of Long Beach
Appendix
7 DRAFT October 2022
Service Layer Credits: Sources: Esri, HERE,
Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,
NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong
Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, ©
OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS
User Community
SOURCE: Esri (2016); LSA (5/2017, 2/2019)
LEGEND
Long Beach City Boundary
Long Beach City Centerlines
Future 2040 Traffic Noise Contours
65 dBA Ldn
70 dBA Ldn
13 9 10
5 6
1 2
14 11 12
7 8
3 4
0 1000 2000
FEET
Appendix | Noise Contours 81
7Appendix
DRAFT October 2022
Service Layer Credits: Sources: Esri, HERE,
Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,
NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong
Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, ©
OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS
User Community
SOURCE: Esri (2016); LSA (5/2017, 2/2019)
LEGEND
Long Beach City Boundary
Long Beach City Centerlines
Future 2040 Traffic Noise Contours
65 dBA Ldn
70 dBA Ldn
13 9 10 5 6 1 2
14 11 12 7 8 3 4
0 1000 2000
FEET
82 Noise Element | City of Long Beach
Appendix
7 DRAFT October 2022
Service Layer Credits: Sources: Esri, HERE,
Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,
NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong
Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, ©
OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS
User Community
SOURCE: Esri (2016); LSA (5/2017, 2/2019)
LEGEND
Long Beach City Boundary
Long Beach City Centerlines
Future 2040 Traffic Noise Contours
65 dBA Ldn
70 dBA Ldn
13 9 10
5 6
1 2
14 11 12
7 8
3 4
0 1000 2000
FEET
Appendix | Noise Contours 83
7Appendix
DRAFT October 2022
Service Layer Credits: Sources: Esri, HERE,
Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,
NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong
Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, ©
OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS
User Community
SOURCE: Esri (2016); LSA (5/2017, 2/2019)
LEGEND
Long Beach City Boundary
Long Beach City Centerlines
Future 2040 Traffic Noise Contours
65 dBA Ldn
70 dBA Ldn
13 9 10 5 6 1 2
14 11 12 7 8 3 4
0 1000 2000
FEET
84 Noise Element | City of Long Beach
Appendix
7 DRAFT October 2022
Service Layer Credits: Sources: Esri, HERE,
Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,
NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong
Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, ©
OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS
User Community
SOURCE: Esri (2016); LSA (5/2017, 2/2019)
LEGEND
Long Beach City Boundary
Long Beach City Centerlines
Future 2040 Traffic Noise Contours
65 dBA Ldn
70 dBA Ldn
13 9 10
5 6
1 2
14 11 12
7 8
3 4
0 1000 2000
FEET
Appendix | Noise Contours 85
7Appendix
DRAFT October 2022
Service Layer Credits: Sources: Esri, HERE,
Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,
NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong
Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, ©
OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS
User Community
SOURCE: Esri (2016); LSA (5/2017, 2/2019)
LEGEND
Long Beach City Boundary
Long Beach City Centerlines
Future 2040 Traffic Noise Contours
65 dBA Ldn
70 dBA Ldn
13 9 10 5 6 1 2
14 11 12 7 8 3 4
0 1000 2000
FEET
86 Noise Element | City of Long Beach
Appendix
7 DRAFT October 2022
Service Layer Credits: Sources: Esri, HERE,
Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,
NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong
Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, ©
OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS
User Community
SOURCE: Esri (2016); LSA (5/2017, 2/2019)
LEGEND
Long Beach City Boundary
Long Beach City Centerlines
Future 2040 Traffic Noise Contours
65 dBA Ldn
70 dBA Ldn
13 9 10
5 6
1 2
14 11 12
7 8
3 4
0 1000 2000
FEET
Appendix | Noise Contours 87
7Appendix
DRAFT October 2022
Service Layer Credits: Sources: Esri, HERE,
Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,
NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong
Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, ©
OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS
User Community
SOURCE: Esri (2016); LSA (5/2017, 2/2019)
LEGEND
Long Beach City Boundary
Long Beach City Centerlines
Future 2040 Traffic Noise Contours
65 dBA Ldn
70 dBA Ldn
13 9 10 5 6 1 2
14 11 12 7 8 3 4
0 1000 2000
FEET
88 Noise Element | City of Long Beach
Appendix
7 DRAFT October 2022
Service Layer Credits: Sources: Esri, HERE,
Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,
NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong
Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, ©
OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS
User Community
SOURCE: Esri (2016); LSA (5/2017, 2/2019)
LEGEND
Long Beach City Boundary
Long Beach City Centerlines
Future 2040 Traffic Noise Contours
65 dBA Ldn
70 dBA Ldn
13 9 10
5 6
1 2
14 11 12
7 8
3 4
0 1000 2000
FEET
Appendix | Noise Contours 89
7Appendix
DRAFT October 2022
Service Layer Credits: Sources: Esri, HERE,
Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,
NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong
Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, ©
OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS
User Community
SOURCE: Esri (2016); LSA (5/2017, 2/2019)
LEGEND
Long Beach City Boundary
Long Beach City Centerlines
Future 2040 Traffic Noise Contours
65 dBA Ldn
70 dBA Ldn
13 9 10 5 6 1 2
14 11 12 7 8 3 4
0 1000 2000
FEET
90 Noise Element | City of Long Beach
Appendix
7 DRAFT October 2022
Service Layer Credits: Sources: Esri, HERE,
Garmin, USGS, Intermap, INCREMENT P,
NRCan, Esri Japan, METI, Esri China (Hong
Kong), Esri Korea, Esri (Thailand), NGCC, ©
OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS
User Community
SOURCE: Esri (2016); LSA (5/2017, 2/2019)
LEGEND
Long Beach City Boundary
Long Beach City Centerlines
Future 2040 Traffic Noise Contours
65 dBA Ldn
70 dBA Ldn
13 9 10
5 6
1 2
14 11 12
7 8
3 4
0 1000 2000
FEET
Appendix | Noise Contours 91
7Appendix
DRAFT October 2022
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Attachment C
Proposed Noise Ordinance Redline
October 20, 2022

8.80.160 Exterior noise limits—Correction for character of sound.

In the event that alleged offensive noise contains a steady audible tone such as a whine, screech, or hum, or is a repetitive noise such as hammering or riveting or contains music or speech conveying informational content, the standard limits set forth in Table A shall be reduced by five (5) decibels.

Table A

EXTERIOR NOISE LIMITS
Receiving Land Use District* Time Period Noise Level** (dBA) District One Night:
10:00 p.m.—7:00 a.m. 45
Day:
7:00 a.m.—10:00 p.m. 50
District Two Night:
10:00 p.m.—7:00 a.m. 55
Day:
7:00 a.m.—10:00 p.m. 60
District Three Any time 65
District Four Any time 70
District Five Regulated by other agencies
and laws
*District One: Predominantly residential with
other land use types also
present
District Two: Mixed-use or Ppredominantly
commercial with other land
use types also present
Districts Three and Four: Predominantly industrial with other land types use also
present
District Five: Airport, freeways and
waterways regulated by other
agencies
** Districts Three and Four limits are intended primarily for use at their boundaries rather than for noise control within those districts.

Proposed Noise Ordinance Redline
10/19/2021