Lafayette Parish, LA Noise from Specific Sources: Low-Frequency Bass Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Weeknight/weekend-night limit
- 3 dB(C) above ambient
- Daytime/other-hours limit
- 5 dB(C) above ambient
- Where measured
- inside the complainant's residence
- Meter setting
- C-weighting, fast response
- Violation class
- always major, min. $150 fine
Summary
Lafayette's noise code caps rhythmic bass measured inside a neighbor's home at 3 dB(C) above ambient on weeknights and 5 dB(C) other times, using C-weighted, fast-response readings under Sec. 34-366(c).
If the source of sound is an amplified sound reproduction device, and the complainant states that the rhythmic bass component of the music is disturbing within the complainant's residence, the noise control officer may take sound level measurements within the residence of the complainant. No person shall cause, suffer, allow, or permit the operation of any amplified source of sound in such a manner that it exceeds the total sound levels by the permissible sound levels limits set forth in Table II when measured within the residence of a complainant.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 65).
Full Breakdown
When a resident complains that the rhythmic bass component of amplified music is disturbing them inside their home, a Lafayette noise control officer can take sound level readings there rather than at the property line. Sec. 34-366(c) bars operating any amplified sound source that pushes the total sound level more than 3 dB(C) above ambient on week nights (10 p.m.-7 a.m.) or weekend nights (11 p.m.-9 a.m.), and more than 5 dB(C) above ambient at all other times, measured with the meter set to C-weighting and fast response, per Table II. The rule applies citywide and parish-wide under LCG's Sec. 1-3, not in Broussard, Carencro, Duson, Scott, Youngsville or Milton.
Violations & Fines
Amplified-sound violations, including rhythmic bass complaints, are automatically classified as major violations under Sec. 34-370(a)(3) - no correction period - punishable under Sec. 1-9 with a minimum $150 fine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does Lafayette measure bass noise complaints?
Does this apply in unincorporated Lafayette Parish or just the city?
What counts as a bass violation?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lafayette Parish
Compare Lafayette Parish to another location·View the Louisiana noise from specific sources overview
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