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Anchorage, AK Noise from Specific Sources: Low-Frequency Bass Limits (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Citation
AMC 15.70.080.C
Trigger
Complaint about rhythmic bass indoors
Metric used
C-weighted, fast-response dB(C)
Where measured
Inside the complainant's residence
Excluded rooms
Hallways, closets, bathrooms

Summary

Anchorage lets code officers measure indoor bass noise on the C-weighted scale when a resident complains about thumping music bleeding through walls.

If the source of sound is amplified sound on private property, and the complainant states that the rhythmic bass component of the music is disturbing within their residence, dwelling, or building structure, then the noise enforcement officer may take sound level measurements within the residence... These sound level shall be measured using the "C" weighted sound level, with the sound level meter set for "C" weighting, "fast" response... The "C"-scale is more sensitive to low frequency sound levels than the "A"-scale.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 5010260; v11 updated 2026-09-01).

Full Breakdown

Under AMC 15.70.080.C, if amplified sound on private property pushes total sound levels indoors above the limits in Table 2, and the complainant specifically says the rhythmic bass component of music is disturbing them inside their home, the noise enforcement officer can take C-weighted, fast-response sound level readings inside the complainant's residence rather than only at the property line. The code notes the C-scale is more sensitive to low-frequency sound than the standard A-scale used for most noise complaints, which is why it's used for bass. Measurements can't be taken in casual-use spaces like hallways, closets, or bathrooms.

Violations & Fines

Enforced by Anchorage code enforcement officers under Title 15 noise control; violations of the resulting sound-level limits are misdemeanor noise offenses subject to citation and fines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does Anchorage use C-weighting for bass complaints?
The C-scale is more sensitive to low-frequency sound than the A-scale normally used, so it better captures thumping bass that passes through walls.
Where does the city measure the noise?
Inside the complaining resident's home, not at the property line, but not in casual-use areas like closets or bathrooms.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Anchorage

Car Alarm LimitsSome RestrictionsDelivery Truck NoiseSome RestrictionsGenerator NoiseSome RestrictionsBar & Nightclub NoiseSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Preferential Parking DistrictsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Snow Removal Parking RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: EV ChargingSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Curb Color RulesSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Pet Groomer RulesSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Wildlife FeedingSome Restrictions

All Anchorage rules

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