Santa Clara County Title B noise standards measure complaints in dBA, which underweights low-frequency bass. Code enforcement may use dBC slow-response measurements when bass complaints persist, especially from car stereos, nightclub subwoofers, and residential parties.
Santa Clara County Title B noise regulations use A-weighted sound pressure (dBA) as the default measurement, which de-emphasizes low frequencies below 500 Hz. Bass-heavy noise from car stereos, club subwoofers, and home theater systems often violates the spirit but not the letter of dBA limits. SCC code enforcement and city officers in San Jose, Sunnyvale, and Cupertino are authorized to also measure C-weighted (dBC) levels when low-frequency complaints persist. Property-line dBC limits in residential zones are typically 60 dBC nighttime and 70 dBC daytime. Vehicle Code §27007 separately prohibits car stereos audible at 50 feet. Bass thumps audible inside neighboring dwellings can be cited as nuisance under Title A general health provisions.
Title B nuisance noise infractions start at $100, escalating to $500 for repeat violations within twelve months. Vehicle Code §27007 stereo citations carry $238 base fines. Persistent commercial bass complaints can trigger conditional use permit review and revocation.
See how Palo Alto's low-frequency bass limits rules stack up against other locations.
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