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Idaho Falls, ID Noise from Specific Sources: Low-Frequency Bass Limits (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Test
Audible 50 feet from source
Bass rule
Rhythmic bass alone counts
First offense
Infraction, Council-set fine
Repeat offense
Misdemeanor within one year

Summary

Idaho Falls counts a vehicle stereo's rhythmic bass alone as 'plainly audible' noise, even if lyrics aren't identifiable, once it carries fifty feet from the source, triggering the city's nuisance noise ban.

Plainly Audible. Any unusual or amplified sound that can be detected by a person using unaided hearing faculties from a distance of fifty feet (50') from the source that is emitting the sound. For example, if a sound source is a portable or personal vehicular sound amplification or reproduction device, the rhythmic bass component of the music is sufficient to be considered plainly audible even if the title of music, words, or artist is not distinct or identifiable. If the source of the sound is not readily determinable, the property line along the parcel of real property from which the sound is emitted shall be deemed as the source of the sound.

CITY CODE OF THE CITY OF IDAHO FALLS 243 Vehicle. As used in this Section, "vehicle" shall have the same meaning as under

View official code

Full Breakdown

City Code § 5-4-11(B) defines 'Plainly Audible' as any unusual or amplified sound detectable by unaided hearing from fifty feet away, and specifies that for a vehicle sound system, the rhythmic bass component alone is sufficient to meet that standard even if the song's title, words, or artist aren't distinguishable. Under § 5-4-11(C)(1), any noise meeting the plainly-audible test at fifty feet is a prohibited nuisance noise. A first violation is an infraction; a second within one calendar year becomes a misdemeanor under § 5-4-11(F) (Ord. 3536, 9-14-23).

Violations & Fines

Bass or music plainly audible fifty feet from its source violates § 5-4-11(C)(1); a first offense is an infraction, and a repeat violation within one year is a misdemeanor under § 5-4-11(F).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get cited for bass even if the words aren't clear?
Yes. City Code § 5-4-11(B) says the rhythmic bass component of amplified vehicle music alone is enough to be 'plainly audible,' regardless of whether lyrics are distinct.
How far away does music have to carry to violate the noise rule?
Fifty feet from the sound source, measured under § 5-4-11(B)-(C)(1) of the Idaho Falls nuisance noise ordinance.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Idaho Falls

Parking Rules: Overnight ParkingSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Street Parking LimitsSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Vehicle NoiseSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Towing & Impound RightsLight RestrictionsParking Rules: Commercial & Oversized VehiclesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Snow Removal Parking RulesSome Restrictions

All Idaho Falls rules

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