A luxurious town in Long Island has put a temporary halt on residents constructing pickleball courts, primarily due to complaints about the loud popping sounds associated with the game.
City officials in Glen Cove have imposed a three-month pause on new court applications while they consider new regulations for noisy recreational facilities, as many wealthy residents have been submitting requests.
“I think it’s important to give them some time,” remarked Mayor Pamela Panzenbeck when residents raised concerns during a recent City Council meeting.
The mayor elaborated that, contrary to tennis courts, pickleball courts produce significantly more noise due to the hard balls used, which contribute to the disturbance.
Some pickleball enthusiasts argued that they feel unfairly singled out, noting that basketball courts also generate ongoing noise from bouncing balls and the metal sounds of rims.
Yet, Panzenbeck clarified that this is just a temporary measure while the city looks into the noise issues and considers new guidelines for courts. The influx of requests from affluent residents wanting to install courts in their backyards has been substantial.
“In neighborhoods where these are being built, quite a few residents are not thrilled,” the mayor added.
Pickleball—an engaging blend of badminton and tennis—has surged in popularity, becoming the fastest growing sport in America in the last five years, according to AAA data.
Estimates suggest that between 20 million and 48 million Americans play pickleball, accounting for around 19% of the adult population.
Despite its popularity, the game has stirred controversy nationwide, as nearby residents complain about the noise it produces.
In Ridgewood, New Jersey, just over an hour from Glen Cove, locals have expressed frustration over “noise pollution” from the sound of hard balls striking paddles.
Carol Kling, who spent $38,000 to install hurricane-grade windows for soundproofing against a neighboring pickleball court, remarked that the noise is reminiscent of gunfire.
Similar issues have been reported in other regions, with Carmel City in California becoming the first in the state to enact a permanent ban on sports within city limits last November.
Despite the complaints, many players seem largely unfazed by the noise concerns. “Pickleball is a gift to us,” said 74-year-old Joanne Archer.
