Boone County, MO Noise from Specific Sources: Low-Frequency Bass Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Blades
- At least 3 required
- Rotor
- Must be upwind design
- Furling
- Not permitted
- Scope
- Applies to WECS-C only
Summary
Boone County requires commercial wind turbines (WECS-C) to use specific design features, at least three blades, an upwind rotor, a proper braking system, and no furling, to avoid disruptive low-frequency noise.
Low Frequency Noise. To avoid disruptive low frequency noises, WECS-C shall be designed in accordance with good engineering practices including the following characteristics: At least three (3) blades; Upwind rotor; A well-designed braking system; No furling.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
Zoning Ordinance § 29.8.2.4 addresses low-frequency noise from commercial Wind Energy Conversion Systems (WECS-C) as an engineering-design requirement, not a numeric limit: turbines must be designed "in accordance with good engineering practices," defined as having at least three blades, an upwind rotor, a well-designed braking system, and no furling. This sits inside the broader § 29.8.2 noise-management standards that also set daytime/nighttime dBA caps. The rule targets only commercial wind turbine projects sited under a Wind Energy Conversion Overlay District, it is not a general noise ordinance covering audio equipment, vehicles, or other bass-heavy sound sources.
Violations & Fines
The ordinance ties low-frequency noise to design compliance rather than a fine; a turbine failing the required design characteristics would not qualify for the Conditional Use Permit needed to operate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does this rule regulate bass from speakers or car stereos?
How does the county enforce the low-frequency design standard?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Boone County
Compare Boone County to another location·View the Missouri noise from specific sources overview
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