THE VILLAGES, Fla. – The rapid “pop” of pickleball paddles — a signature sound of one of the nation’s fastest-growing sports — is now at the center of a growing dispute in The Villages.
Hundreds of residents have signed a petition asking for noise mitigation near the Saluki Recreation Center, where multiple pickleball courts sit close to residential homes. The petition does not call for the sport to be shut down, but instead asks for solutions to reduce the impact of the sound.
Residents who signed the petition say the repetitive noise carries into nearby homes, affecting their quality of life.
The issue was brought to Sumter County leaders in an effort to pursue a noise ordinance. However, county officials said they cannot enforce one in this case due to a development agreement tied to The Villages.
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That agreement limits how local noise regulations can be applied in the area, effectively leaving enforcement up to the community itself.
Despite the concerns, not all residents agree that the noise is a problem.
“I mean, I think it’s a little ridiculous. I have not heard that people are complaining about it because I think everybody loves to play it here,” Sienna Jepsen said.
Others say pickleball is a major reason they chose to live in the community.
“This is what we come here for. This is why we bought a home in the village, as was for all the activities, and to be able to stay active,” said, Lea Thiel, a resident who lives near the courts.
Some potential solutions have been discussed, including quieter, “noise-reducing” paddles. However, those paddles can cost around $200, which some residents say is not a realistic option.
“A solution would be to offer the quieter pickleball paddles in the rec centers,” Allie Wilson suggested.
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To better understand the concern, a decibel-reading app was used near homes closest to the courts. The sound measured around 50 decibels — roughly equivalent to an office setting or light rain.
Still, opinions remain divided.
“Find a way to deal with it,” one resident said. “Play some music on your lanai if you’re outside… we’re all just trying to have some fun and relax and stay healthy,” said Thiel
With Sumter County unable to intervene, residents seeking change may have to bring their concerns directly to The Villages leadership.