Rock and roll is being teamed with acoustical measurements in a unique test to determine possible outdoor entertainment uses in Fullerton’s bustling downtown district.

At City Council direction, the Community Development Department has initiated an acoustic study to determine what base-line noise levels may be permitted for outdoor entertainment in the downtown.

Fullerton Senior Planner Jay Eastman explained the city is working with Roscoe’s Famous Deli, a popular local eatery, to determine allowable noise levels and possible mitigation efforts to reduce the impacts of outdoor entertainment on surrounding business and residential neighborhoods.

Eastman said every weekend since March 20, an acoustic consultant has been measuring sound levels from bands performing on Roscoe’s outdoor patio to determine noise levels in neighboring areas.  The testing takes place while bands play 10 p.m.-1 a.m. Friday and Saturday, and from 5 -9 p.m. Sunday.

Testing will run through April 19.

The test is the result of a request made to the City Council in December by Jack Franklyn, owner of Roscoe’s, to allow amplified music on the deli’s patio.  Council denied the request in response to citizen concerns regarding noise. 

“However, the council felt outdoor music could be an enjoyable activity and a benefit for the downtown, if controlled,” Eastman said.  “As a result, council directed city staff to develop a pilot program that might allow for outdoor music under specific criteria and conditions.”

The outdoor band performances are necessary to allow the acoustic consultant to take meter readings at the patio, in various locations downtown, and in surrounding neighborhoods.