Frederick County, VA Noise from Specific Sources: Low-Frequency Bass Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Bass-tone standard
- Rhythmic bass tones alone suffice
- Meter reading
- Not required if bass is detected
- Governing clause
- 'Plainly audible' definition, § 118-4.C
- Applies within
- RP, R4, R5, MH1 districts, 9pm-6am
- Penalty
- $100 first offense, $1,000 repeat
Summary
Frederick County defines 'plainly audible' noise to specifically include rhythmic bass tones, so music that carries mainly as thumping bass across a property line can violate the noise ordinance even without a decibel reading.
The term "plainly audible" shall mean any sound that can be heard clearly by a person using his or her unaided hearing faculties. When music is involved, the detection of rhythmic bass tones shall be sufficient to be considered plainly audible sound.
Full Breakdown
C of the Frederick County Code defines 'plainly audible' as any sound that can be heard clearly by a person using unaided hearing, and it goes further for music specifically: when music is involved, detecting rhythmic bass tones alone is enough to count as plainly audible sound. A bans operating a radio, amplifier, musical instrument or similar device when it is 'plainly audible or exceeding 60 decibels' across a residential property boundary, through shared partitions, or at 50 feet or more from its source. Because the bass-tone standard satisfies 'plainly audible' on its own, Sheriff's deputies enforcing Chapter 118 do not need a decibel meter reading to cite low-frequency bass, such as from a car stereo, home theater subwoofer, or outdoor speaker, that carries into a neighbor's property; detecting the rhythmic thump is sufficient. C still requires a law enforcement officer to give notice and a chance to abate before a citation issues.
Violations & Fines
A bass-noise violation is punishable under § 118-3 by a fine of not more than $100 for a first offense and not more than $1,000 for each subsequent offense, with each occurrence a separate offense; the Sheriff of Frederick County or a designee enforces the chapter under § 118-2, and a citation can only follow after the officer has given notice under § 118-1.C and the person had an opportunity to stop the noise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be cited for loud bass even if it's not over 60 decibels in Frederick County?
What counts as 'plainly audible' bass under Frederick County's noise ordinance?
Where does the bass-noise rule apply in Frederick County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Frederick County
Compare Frederick County to another location·View the Virginia noise from specific sources overview
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