Rio Rancho, NM Noise from Specific Sources: Low-Frequency Bass Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Scale used
- C-weighted, dB(C)
- Residential daytime
- 60 dB(C)
- Residential nighttime
- 55 dB(C)
- Why C-weighting
- more sensitive to bass
Summary
Rio Rancho, New Mexico measures bass-heavy, low-frequency noise on the more sensitive C-weighted scale, capping residential source premises at 60 dB(C) daytime and 55 dB(C) nighttime under Table 2.
"C-weighted" sound pressure level means the sound pressure level as measured on a sound-level meter using the C-weighting network. The unit of measurement is dB(C). The "C" weighting net-work is more sensitive to low frequencies than is the "A" weighting network. ... Residential Zoned Districts 60 55
Full Breakdown
Section 131.06(A) defines "C-weighted" sound pressure level, measured in dB(C), as more sensitive to low frequencies than the standard A-weighting network used for most noise readings: the scale the ordinance applies to bass-dominant sound. Table 2 in subsection (E) sets the C-weighted limits for Rio Rancho, Sandoval County: 60 dB(C) daytime and 55 dB(C) nighttime for residential districts, rising through commercial to 80/75 dB(C) for industrial districts, measured at the source premises property line.
Violations & Fines
Bass or low-frequency noise exceeding the zone's C-weighted limit violates § 131.06; the city's general penalty (§ 10.99) fines up to $500 and/or 90 days jail, each day a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Rio Rancho use a separate scale for bass-heavy noise?
What's the nighttime bass-noise limit near a residential zone?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Rio Rancho
Compare Rio Rancho to another location·View the New Mexico noise from specific sources overview
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