Regulation of nightlife noise in Paris: the contribution of innovative monitoring and perspectives

Abstract

Recreational noise generated by nightlife in urban areas is a particularly delicate issue, as the complex nature of the noise sources involved (music, human voices, traffic...) makes it complicated to grasp from a technical point of view. It is also difficult to regulate since there is a highly subjective aspect to the perception of such noise. Bruitparif has been involved in the observation of this type of noise in the most attractive areas of Paris since 2016. More than 40 " Medusa " sensors making it possible to identify the dominant source of the noise have been deployed in areas where nightlife noise is reported to be problematic by the local residents. This outdoor acoustic monitoring allows an analysis of the sound levels generated by customers of festive establishments or gatherings of people in public spaces, and provides objective data support that can then serve as a reference for discussions between the various stakeholders. Measurement data coupled with modelling development is essential for the proper consideration of this problem, which is more than a simple nuisance. Indeed, it probably has important consequences for the health of inhabitants given that noise occurs during periods that are particularly critical for sleep quality.