About Sound Limits

 Respect & Responsibility at Quinta da Bella Vista

 

At Quinta da Bella Vista, we value respect—for the reasons you chose Sintra, for your guests, for our neighbors and surroundings, and, of course, for the law.

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Legal Compliance on Sound Levels

 

Dear Guests,

 

As per Law no. 9/2007, dated January 17, sound levels must not exceed legal limits beyond the property lines. Specific dB(A) limits apply depending on the time of day.

 

To ensure compliance, sound measurements have determined that the maximum limit inside the Greenhouse is 88 dB(A), with short dynamic peaks of up to 98 dB(A).

• The Greenhouse doors, windows, and roof must remain closed when dance music is playing.

• The Estate reserves the right to monitor and regulate sound levels, including sub-bass control.

• All music in the Greenhouse must be played through a pre-approved Advanced Sound Limiter (dBelectronics – Model CAP21).

• Tampering with the limiter may result in music being stopped by authorities or the Estate, leading to forfeiture of the security deposit.

 

Curfew & Event Responsibilities

• Music volume will be automatically reduced by 10 dB(A) at 11:30 PM and will end at 12:30 AM sharp.

• The Event Planner is responsible for ensuring compliance with noise regulations and maintaining control of the event until all guests have departed.

• Failure to comply may result in the forfeiture of the security deposit and, in extreme cases, event termination by regulatory authorities.

• The Estate is not responsible for any losses incurred due to event interruption or cancellation resulting from non-compliance with sound restrictions.

 

Understanding Sound Levels at the Greenhouse

We understand that decibel levels can be confusing. Some guests have initially thought that 88 dB(A) would not be enough for dancing. However, this is not the case.

• 88 dB(A) for talking: Comparable to a loud conversation in a busy restaurant or street.

• 88 dB(A) for music: Similar to a nightclub or concert environment, where you feel the rhythm and beats, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

• Sound Energy & Perception: A 10 dB increase equals a tenfold increase in sound energy. So, 98 dB(A) is significantly louder than 88 dB(A).

 

The Advanced Sound Limiter ensures compliance while allowing guests to fully enjoy the music. Unlike standard limiters, it actively filters out ambient noise, meaning cheering, clapping, and conversations won’t trigger sound restrictions. Additionally, it only limits excessive levels sustained over time, ensuring smooth sound management without abrupt cutoffs.

 

Curfew & Late-Night Extensions

We have established a 2:00 AM curfew based on experience, guest well-being, and staff logistics.

• After 2:00 AM, most guests begin to wind down—extended parties often become unbalanced, with only a small group continuing late into the night.

• If you require additional time, the Palacio Adega may be available until later (max. 4:00 AM) (subject to availability and additional charges).

 

Safety & Responsible Drinking

Please be mindful of your guests’ well-being and safety.

• We strongly encourage you to arrange Ubers or transportation for guests.

• Do not allow intoxicated guests to drive—ensuring their safety is paramount.

• Any accidents or injuries, whether on or off the property, are the sole responsibility of the client and their guests.

 

The Estate assumes no liability for loss, damage, injury, or fatalities resulting from negligence or excessive alcohol consumption. Guests waive any claims against the Estate except in cases of willful misconduct.

 

Understanding the Sound Meter Readings

For transparency, we have two decibel meters for monitoring sound levels:

1. Primary Meter (Green Border) – Directly linked to the sound limiter, with a microphone on the roof.

2. Standalone Meter (Right Side of the Counter) – Independent, with a microphone placed near the speakers.

Since the standalone meter is closer to the sound source, it may display higher readings than the official limiter. This is simply for reference and does not impact the set limits.