Boise Residents Sue City Over Pickleball Noise: Two Boise residents have filed a tort claim against the city, citing unbearable noise from pickleball courts near their home. Kathleen Romito and Patrick Dougherty, who live next to Willow Lane Park, claim that the constant noise has made their home “unlivable” and caused psychological and financial harm.
The couple’s complaint, filed on Jan. 14, states that the city’s 2017 conversion of the park’s tennis courts into six pickleball courts resulted in a “distinctive and oppressive noise profile.” The noise from paddles striking plastic balls, they say, is sharp, unpredictable, and impossible to ignore.
They are seeking an injunction to stop pickleball play at the park, as well as $1.6 million in damages for the loss of property value, psychological distress, and reduced enjoyment of their home.
“As the conduct is ongoing, this figure is subject to increase.” – (claim)
Residents Claim Health and Property Damage
Romito, a retired physician, serves on the scientific advisory board of Quiet Communities, where she studies the health effects of noise pollution. She argues that excessive pickleball noise can lead to stress, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and cognitive impairment.
“Noise is the new ‘secondhand smoke’ and has myriad effects on our health,” Romito states in her LinkedIn bio. The couple documented the noise in a YouTube video included in their claim.
The homeowners argue that Boise failed to consult residents before converting the tennis courts and has not done enough to mitigate the noise. While the city installed sound barriers and restricted play on Mondays and Tuesdays, the couple says these efforts have been ineffective.
Pickleball Noise a Growing Issue Nationwide
Pickleball has increased in popularity across the U.S., but complaints about noise have also increased. The sport’s distinctive “pop” has led to lawsuits, noise complaints, and neighborhood disputes.
USA Pickleball’s managing director of equipment standards, Carl Schmits, recommends placing courts at least 200 feet from homes. However, the Willow Lane courts are just 57 feet from Romito and Dougherty’s residence.
“Neighbors living within 250 feet of pickleball courts are more likely to report severe distress, including hearing phantom noises and a sense of feeling ‘tortured.’ There is an increasing consensus that pickleball courts do not belong near homes.” – (Romito)
City’s Response and Next Steps
Boise Parks and Recreation spokesperson Bonnie Shelton declined to comment, citing pending litigation. The city has refused the couple’s request to convert the courts back to tennis.
The claim serves as a legal warning before a potential lawsuit. If unresolved, Boise could face a court battle over the future of pickleball at Willow Lane Park.
News in Brief: Boise Residents Sue City Over Pickleball Noise
Two Boise residents are suing the city over noise from pickleball courts near their home, claiming psychological distress and property damage. The city installed sound barriers but has refused to remove the courts. The couple seeks an injunction and $1.6 million in damages, adding to a nationwide debate over pickleball noise.
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