Georgetown, KY Noise from Specific Sources: Low-Frequency Bass Limits (2026)

Bass noise in Georgetown is measured by the definition in Georgetown Code § 28-34(a), 'General prohibition,' in Chapter 28, Article II (Noise). The code sets no decibel number and no frequency band. It uses a hearing test instead.

Subsection (a) makes it unlawful for any person to make or cause to be made any loud or unreasonable noise as defined in the article. Unreasonable noise disturbs, injures or endangers the peace or health of another or the health, safety, or welfare of the community, and the section states that such noise constitutes the disturbance of the peace and a public nuisance. The term 'loud and unreasonable noise' means noise that is plainly audible to a reasonable person of normal sensitivities using his unaided hearing faculties at the times and distances the article proscribes.

The bass point is in the last sentence. To be plainly audible does not require the listener to be able to determine specific characteristics of the noise, such as the words of a song being played. It requires only that the listener hears the noise, and the example the code gives is the boom of the song's base, as printed. A low thump that carries through a wall or across a yard therefore counts even when no lyric or melody can be made out.

The distances come from subsection (b). For sound devices, including motor vehicle sound equipment, the tests are audibility through walls separating dwelling units within the same multifamily building, within a dwelling unit on another property, from the right-of-way into a dwelling unit, and at a distance of 50 feet or greater from the source.

Under § 28-36, a violation is a criminal violation enforced by uniform citation from a police officer or citation officer. Fines are $50.00 for a first offense, $100.00 for a second offense within 12 months, and $200.00 for a third and subsequent offenses within 12 months.