Evansville, IN Noise from Specific Sources: Low-Frequency Bass Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Nighttime audibility limit
- 25 feet, 10 p.m.-8 a.m.
- Daytime audibility limit
- 50 feet, 8 a.m.-10 p.m.
- Bass alone proves violation
- Yes, EMC 9.30.010
- Governing sections
- EMC 9.30.010, 9.30.050(C)
Summary
Evansville's noise code defines plainly audible bass as enough on its own to prove a violation, and sets vehicular music amplification distance limits of 25 feet at night and 50 feet by day.
“Plainly audible” means any sound that can be detected by an EPD or EPA officer using his or her unaided hearing faculties of normal acuity. As an example, if the sound source under investigation is a portable or vehicular sound amplification or reproduction device, the detection of the rhythmic bass component of the music is sufficient to verify plainly audible sound. The EPD or EPA need not determine the title, specific words, or the artist performing the song.
“Private right-of-way” means any street, avenue, boulevard, road, highway, sidewalk, alley or easement that is owned, leased, or controlled by a nongovernmental entity.
“Public right-of-way” means any street, avenue, boulevard, road, highway, sidewalk, alley, or easement that is owned, leased, or controlled by a governmental entity.
“Public space” means any real property or structures thereon that are owned, leased, or controlled by a governmental entity.
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: current through Ordinance G-2026-12, passed June 22, 2026).
Full Breakdown
EMC 9.30.010's 'plainly audible' definition specifically addresses bass: if the source under investigation is a portable or vehicular sound system, detection of the rhythmic bass component of the music alone is sufficient to verify plainly audible sound, and officers need not identify the song or artist. EMC 9.30.050(C)(3)-(4) then sets the operative limits for vehicular music amplification: it may not be plainly audible beyond 25 feet from the vehicle between 10:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m., or beyond 50 feet between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.
Violations & Fines
First violation is a formal written warning; second $50; third $150; fourth $500; fifth and subsequent violations $500 to $7,500 plus an order to cease using the sound equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Evansville officers need to identify the song to cite bass noise?
How far can car stereo bass carry at night in Evansville before it violates the code?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Evansville
Compare Evansville to another location·View the Indiana noise from specific sources overview
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