That still sounds like a shop that opened in the neighborhood, not a neighborhood that built up around a shop (or, in your case, around an agricultural operation). He still needs a good reputation.
I do agree with you that it does depend, in part, on zoning. I'd suggest it also depends on what else is happening all around. If it is generally a heavy commercial area, and zoned as such and there is other noise, I'd be less concerned about the saws. But if it is generally a neighborhood, even if there is no zoning or no rules against it, I still wouldn't run saws until 9:00. Just my opinion. I get that there are circumstances that don't allow for that flexibility. I don't even consider what you outlined to be out of line or disrespectful - there are some things that are very time sensitive. But to me, there are other things that always need to happen doing small engine maintenance. Something can be cleaned. Chains can be sharpened. Part orders submitted. Invoices paid. Etc... then start the saws. Perhaps even watch the neighbors...if they all head off to work every day, or mow their lawns at 8 in the morning, maybe I'd be less concerned about the noise.
