KBDJ is sensitive to concerns by our neighbors about noise from quarry operations. We have commissioned noise studies on several occasions — both from the perimeter of our site and from the properties of adjacent homeowners — and have determined that noise from the quarry falls well below all regulatory guidelines.

Several studies conducted by third-party companies found noise levels from the KBDJ site to be in the 40-65 decibel (dBA) range, which is considered “quiet” by the Environmental Protection Agency and “acceptable” by the Federal Housing Administration. Other examples of common sounds in this range include light auto traffic and air conditioning. The city of Dripping Springs does not have a noise ordinance; however, the Texas Penal Code states that noise is “unreasonable” if it exceeds 85 dB.

Although we are well below any federal, state or local regulation, we are voluntarily making efforts to keep noise levels low. KBDJ has taken the following steps that were not required by law:

• We agreed to curtail crushing activities before 8:00 AM and after 8:00 PM. This restriction is enforceable under our air operating permit.
• We voluntarily installed sonar devices on KBDJ-owned and -operated mobile equipment, so that back-up alarms are not continuously audible to neighbors.
• We installed a new rock crusher in late 2007 that includes a walled cover to dampen and reduce noise.
• We limit the fall height of material to minimize noise.
• We upgraded to low-noise-emission loaders and equipment.
• We post and enforce a no horns and no engine brakes policy for truckers while on the KBDJ site.

If you have any questions or concerns about noise, please call our office at (512) 275-0303.