Chula Vista, CA Noise from Specific Sources: Low-Frequency Bass Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- CVMC § 17.24.040(D)(2)
- Vibration distance test
- 50 feet from the source
- When it applies
- Any time, any commercial or residential zone
- Enforcement power
- Confiscate amplifier components (§17.24.050)
- Repeat-violation fine
- Up to $1,000 per incident
Summary
Chula Vista treats felt vibration, not just decibels, as proof of an unlawful noise. Under CVMC 17.24.040(D)(2), any sound amplifier operated so a person feels vibration accompanying the sound 50 feet from the source is a prima facie violation, at any hour, anywhere in the city.
D. Prima Facie Violations. Any of the following shall constitute evidence of a prima facie violation of this section: ... 2. The operation of any sound amplifier which is part of or connected to any radio receiving set, stereo, compact disc player, cassette tape player, or other similar device when operated at any time in a manner as to be plainly audible at a distance of 50 feet and when operated in a manner as to cause a person to be aware of vibration accompanying the sound at a distance of 50 feet from the source.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance 3623, passed May 19, 2026).
Full Breakdown
040 bans disturbing, excessive, offensive or unreasonable noise citywide and lists prima facie violations that shift the burden onto the noise-maker. 2 targets bass-heavy sound specifically: operating a sound amplifier connected to a radio, stereo, CD player, cassette player or similar device "at any time" so that it is both plainly audible at 50 feet AND causes a person to be aware of vibration accompanying the sound at 50 feet from the source. , residential zones only, audibility alone), the vibration standard applies around the clock and in any commercial or residential zone, which is exactly how low-frequency bass gets regulated when a standard decibel meter reading understates the disturbance.
5, power to confiscate and impound the amplifying or transmitting components as evidence, and to impound a vehicle carrying them if the components cannot be removed without damage. 060, exposing the responsible person, including a property owner who has actual notice of a tenant's first violation, to an administrative fine of up to $1,000 per incident plus liability for the cost of police services responding to the repeat call.
Violations & Fines
First offense: citation and possible on-the-spot confiscation of the amplifier, speakers, subwoofer or other transmitting components under CVMC 17.24.050; a vehicle-mounted system may be impounded if it cannot be removed without damage. A second violation at the same address within 365 days is a public nuisance under CVMC 17.24.060, carrying up to a $1,000 administrative fine per incident and liability for police response costs; minors' fines pass to a parent or guardian.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Chula Vista prove a bass noise violation without a decibel meter?
Can police take my speakers for a bass complaint in Chula Vista?
What happens on a second bass noise complaint at the same house?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Chula Vista
California rules heatmap·Compare Chula Vista to another location·View the California noise from specific sources overview
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Low-Frequency Bass Limits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in San Diego County handle low-frequency bass limits.