- dB(A). A-weighted sound pressure level or A-level is the sound pressure level that has been filtered or weighted to quantitatively reduce the effect of the low frequency noise. It was designed to approximate the response of the human ear to sound. A-level is measured in units of decibels.
- Decibel (dB). A unit for describing the amplitude of sound, equal to 20 times the logarithm to the base 10 of the ratio of the pressure of the sound measured to the reference pressure, which is 20 micropascals (20 micro Newtons per square meter).
- Dedicate. To offer or set aside for a specific program, action, or use; when in the context of land dedication, the land is generally set aside for public ownership, use, and/or operation or maintenance.
- Density. Dwelling units per acre; a measure of residential development.
- Design. To conceive in advance the size, shape, qualities, appearance, open space and other attributes of a proposed development, building and related improvements, generally rendered in graphic forms that communicate the anticipated outcome.
- Determine. To calculate in advance the nature or outcome of an anticipated action, situation, or proposal.
- Discourage. To openly deter (or attempt to deter) an individual, group, or organization from doing something.
- Discretionary. An action taken by a governmental agency that calls for the exercise of judgment in deciding whether to approve and/or how to carry out a project.
- District. Broad portions of the city that have consistent design features and/or a similar character.
- Dwelling unit. A room or group of rooms (including sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation facilities, limited to one kitchen), which constitutes an independent housing unit, occupied or intended for occupancy by one household on a long term basis.