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Murfreesboro, TN Noise from Specific Sources: Low-Frequency Bass Limits (2026)

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

Key Facts

Term used
"Repetitive bass sounds," § 21-103(B)(45)
Applies
Multi-family units, 8pm-8am
Standard
Plainly audible = presumed violation
Measurement
C-weighting scale for bass

Summary

Murfreesboro's noise code singles out "repetitive bass sounds" as plainly audible noise, and treats bass that's plainly audible in a neighboring unit overnight as automatic proof of a violation.

"Plainly audible sound:" Any sound for which the information content of that sound is unambiguously communicated to the listener, such as, but not limited to, understandable spoken speech, comprehension of whether a voice is raised or normal, repetitive bass sounds, or comprehensible musical rhythms.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 18 Update 1).

Full Breakdown

Code § 21-103(B)(45) defines "plainly audible sound" to expressly include "repetitive bass sounds" alongside raised voices and musical rhythms. Under § 21-106(C)(3), any sound originating in a multi-family dwelling or common area that is plainly audible -- including bass -- in another unit between 8:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. is prima facie evidence of a violation, rebuttable only by proof the numeric limits weren't exceeded. When enforcing bass-heavy sources, § 21-105(D)(3) directs the Noise Control Officer to also measure on the C-weighting scale, which captures the low-frequency energy that standard A-weighting can understate.

Violations & Fines

Bass or music plainly audible in a neighboring apartment or condo between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. is presumed a violation of Code § 21-106(C)(3), rebuttable only with sound-meter proof of compliance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Murfreesboro's noise code specifically address bass?
Yes. Code § 21-103(B)(45) lists "repetitive bass sounds" as an example of "plainly audible sound," the term used to enforce the nighttime multi-family noise rule.
What if a neighbor's bass is audible through the wall at night?
Under § 21-106(C)(3), bass plainly audible in your unit between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. is treated as prima facie evidence of a violation.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Murfreesboro

Parking Rules: Street Parking LimitsSome RestrictionsDelivery Truck NoiseSome RestrictionsBar & Nightclub NoiseSome RestrictionsHVAC & Mechanical NoiseSome RestrictionsGenerator NoiseSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Decibel LimitsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: EV ChargingLight RestrictionsParking Rules: Abandoned VehiclesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Commercial & Oversized VehiclesSignificant Restrictions

All Murfreesboro rules

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