Pickleball Noise Sparks Controversy in Nantucket: Nantucket officials are discussing a potential ban on pickleball due to noise complaints from residents. The Nantucket Board of Selectmen reviewed the issue during their meeting on Wednesday as they discussed an updated draft for the upcoming Annual Town Meeting on May 3, 2025.
Noise Complaints Spark Debate
The debate over pickleball noise has become a significant concern on the Massachusetts island. Megan Trudel, from Nantucket Planning and Land Use Services, explained that the issue is aimed at sparking a conversation on whether or how the noise might be controlled through zoning.
“This is really going to spark a conversation on if or how this may be controlled,” Trudel said during the meeting.
Thomas Dixon, a board member, expressed his concerns over what constitutes a “pickleball surface” and how noise enforcement might be handled. “I know it’s the noise that’s a problem. How does enforcement work?” Dixon asked, seeking clarification before finalizing the warrant article.
Island-Wide Issue
The pickleball noise debate is not unique to Nantucket. Vice Chairman Matt Fee joked, saying, “If you could design a silent pickleball ball, you would be buying a house on Eel Point or Hulbert Ave.” He noted that the issue of noise from pickleball courts is widespread.
Dixon also acknowledged that many residents have voiced their concerns, with some players enjoying the noise while it bothers their neighbors. “I know these issues are coming up for a reason,” Dixon added.
Other Communities Face Similar Problems
Nantucket isn’t alone in dealing with pickleball noise. Other Massachusetts towns have also faced similar complaints.
In Braintree, residents became frustrated with the pickleball courts that attracted hundreds of players in 2024. Wellesley also considered changes after receiving complaints from local residents.
Potential Impact on Local Communities
The debate over pickleball noise in Nantucket could set a precedent for other communities. If the town moves forward with a ban, it might influence how other locations address similar issues.
The decision could also impact the growing popularity of pickleball in Massachusetts and its future in quieter, residential areas.
News in Brief: Pickleball Noise Sparks Controversy in Nantucket
Nantucket officials are considering a pickleball ban due to noise complaints. The debate was discussed at a town meeting, with officials exploring potential zoning controls. Other Massachusetts communities, including Braintree and Wellesley, have faced similar issues as pickleball grows in popularity.
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