Hamilton, NJ Noise from Specific Sources: Low-Frequency Bass Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing chapter
- Code Ch. 311, Noise
- Bass detection standard
- Rhythmic bass alone proves violation
- Portable speaker limit, day
- Not audible at 50 feet
- Portable speaker limit, night
- Not audible at 25 feet
- C-weighted night increase cap
- 3 dB(C)
- Maximum civil penalty
- $2,000 per offense
Summary
Hamilton lets its noise officers cite a plainly audible bass beat as proof of a violation on its own, without identifying the song. Portable speakers on streets and sidewalks cannot be heard 50 feet away by day or 25 feet away at night, and C-weighted measurements catch low-frequency sound other tests miss.
Any sound that can be detected by an NCO or an NCI 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 NCO or NCI need not determine the title, specific words, or the artist performing the song.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: rev 4984352; v35 updated 2026-06-16; through 06-16-2026).
Full Breakdown
Chapter 311's definitions section addresses bass directly. Section 311-2 defines "plainly audible" as any sound an enforcement officer can detect with unaided normal hearing, and gives portable or vehicular music as the working example: "the detection of the rhythmic bass component of the music is sufficient to verify plainly audible sound," and the officer need not identify the title, words or artist. The same section defines dBC as the "C" weighting network, which is "more sensitive to low frequencies than is the 'A' weighting network," the standard used for most of the chapter's other limits. weekend nights) and 6 dB at all other times. m.
Violations & Fines
Violations of Chapter 311, including a plainly audible bass-based citation, are enforced under Section 311-11: a Noise Control Officer or Investigator issues a notice of violation or notice of penalty assessment, with civil penalties up to the state-law maximum of $2,000 per offense under N.J.S.A. 40:49-5, and each day of a continuing violation treated as a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Hamilton cite someone for bass without identifying the song?
How far can a portable speaker be heard legally on a Hamilton street?
Why does Hamilton use C-weighted measurements for bass complaints?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Hamilton
Compare Hamilton to another location·View the New Jersey noise from specific sources overview
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