Ross is evaluating whether to ban pickleball courts on private property.
The Town Council heard a presentation from staff at its meeting Thursday about implementing the pickleball court regulations because of home courts and the potential noise disturbances they create.
“After an extended discussion, the council decided to continue the matter to the council’s October meeting so that staff could respond to requests for additional information requested by council members,” said Mayor Bill Kircher.
Pickleball has exploded in popularity in Marin but it also has irritated residents because of its noise. The paddle-and-ball game has prompted restrictions and audibility evaluations.
“The council was very close to banning it,” said Councilmember Mathew Salter.
Salter said multiple community members spoke on the issue, both for and against. He said staff would likely develop regulations allowing the game, but with restrictions related to audibility and equipment.
“Before banning it, there are newer balls and paddles that are quieter that are available to buy now,” Salter said. “The issue is not the sport, the issue is the noise.”
The noise limit for exterior use areas is set at 55 decibels in Ross. Courts must be at least 250 feet from residences in order to meet this decibel level, a staff report said.
Corte Madera, Mill Valley and San Anselmo do not require use permits to develop private pickleball courts, a staff report said.
Tiburon conducted a study on the impact of pickleball court noise disturbances in 2022. The town requires an audibility report be conducted in order to develop courts and ensure that there are minimal disturbances, the staff report said.
Mitigation efforts such as soundproof walls can range from $25,000 for the soundproofing material and up to $90,000 for construction.
In Corte Madera, two new pickleball courts are under construction at Town Park. Two courts, which include soundproof walls, are estimated to cost $350,000.
