Paso Robles man seeks sounds regulations for Mid State Fair

Between the thumping bass and the screaming crowd, the concerts at the Mid State Fair are fun and loud.

So loud however, some are concerned the music could be damaging to their ears.

“I think that everyone enjoys music when they can hear it without having to wear earplugs or earmuffs and without concern of damaging their hearing,” says Paso Robles resident John Drinkwater.

Drinkwater wants to protect people at the Mid State Fair from what he calls “second hand sound.”

He wants the Mid State Fair to be more transparent about their audio levels by keeping a log that would be available to the public.

“It recently came to light that the California Mid State Fair has failed to comply with its own sound requirements,” Drinkwater says.

But fair officials say that the sound levels for each concert can vary.

“Contractually we work with each and every artist on the level of sound that is required so that’s within the contractual language. [However], that can vary depending on the location within the stage, where they’re located on the grounds – whether it’s in the Grand Stand facility or another facility on the grounds,” CEO of the Mid State Fair, Michael Bradley explains.

Bradley says they hire outside technicians to ensure the sound is appropriate for their guests. Drinkwater believes these technicians should be able to “[provide] transparent and accountable data like all other venues to ensure compliance.”

“We are requesting the council – require like other counties and city that the Mid State Fair to adhere to its contracts and honor its duty to protect the public,” Drinkwater says.

He plans on bringing this to the Paso Robles City Council’s attention at their meeting on Tuesday.