The wealthy oceanfront town of Carmel, California, has implemented a permanent ban on pickleball in its public park after residents expressed concerns over the noise generated by the sport. The decision came after the Carmel City Council voted earlier this month to prohibit the game at Forest Hill Park, the sole public pickleball facility in the city. The council had previously imposed a temporary ban to address the issue, but the permanent measure was enacted due to unresolved concerns about noise pollution and enforcement difficulties.
Residents reported that the repetitive ‘popping’ sound from paddles striking plastic balls was echoing through the neighborhood, particularly affecting the tranquility of the area. Despite proposals to use quieter equipment, the council determined that the noise issue could not be adequately managed without strict oversight, leading to the final decision to ban the sport entirely. The city will now draft an ordinance to formalize the ban, with opponents given two additional hearings to appeal the decision.
Council member Alissandra Dramov emphasized that the situation was becoming too complex to handle through compromise, stating that the park was not a suitable location for pickleball. Meanwhile, local residents have expressed divided opinions, with some supportive of the ban and others concerned about the lack of enforcement mechanisms. Competitive pickleball player Barbara Lang criticized the decision, arguing that allowing the sport with quieter equipment would be a more reasonable compromise than a complete ban.
Mayor Dale Byrne acknowledged the difficulty of enforcing the ban, stating that it was a regrettable outcome but necessary to address the community’s concerns. As the town moves forward with implementing the ban, the issue highlights the growing tensions between recreational activities and urban noise management in affluent communities.