Broken Arrow, OK Noise from Specific Sources: Low-Frequency Bass Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Buffer distance
- 300 feet of residential property
- Duration trigger
- over 10 continuous minutes
- Standard
- bass, rhythm, or melody perceptible indoors
- Fine
- $50 to $100
- Latest amendment
- Ord. No. 3901, Feb. 2026
Summary
Broken Arrow bars amplified music or sound equipment at public assembly venues within 300 feet of homes when bass, rhythm, or melody stays plainly audible inside a dwelling for more than ten minutes.
It shall be unlawful to operate ... any sound amplification equipment, live or recorded music, or similar sound source in or upon a place of public assembly located within 300 feet of property zoned or used for residential purposes, in such a manner that the sound is plainly audible inside any dwelling unit, doors and windows closed, for a continuous period in excess of ten minutes. ... 'plainly audible' means any sound where the bass, rhythm, or melody is clearly perceptible to a person of ordinary sensibilities inside the dwelling unit.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 43).
Full Breakdown
Under Broken Arrow Code § 16-12(a)(9), operating sound amplification equipment, live music, or recorded music at a place of public assembly, parks, event centers, houses of worship, and similar venues, within 300 feet of residentially zoned or used property is unlawful once the sound is plainly audible inside a dwelling, doors and windows closed, for more than ten continuous minutes. The city defines 'plainly audible' specifically as bass, rhythm, or melody a person of ordinary sensibilities can perceive from inside the home, a definition built directly around the low-frequency bass complaint. The Rose District, New Orleans Square Overlay, and Broken Arrow Events Park carry separate late-night exemptions under the same section, in Tulsa County, Oklahoma.
Violations & Fines
Violating subsection (a) is punishable by a fine of $50 to $100 under Broken Arrow Code § 16-12(d); each continuing incident can support a separate citation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this apply to residential parties, not just venues?
What makes bass noise 'plainly audible' under the code?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Broken Arrow
Compare Broken Arrow to another location·View the Oklahoma noise from specific sources overview
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