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Roswell, GA 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

Residential nighttime dBC cap
60 dBC (11 p.m.-7 a.m.)
Industrial dBC cap
70 dBC at all times
Why dBC
C-weighting captures lower frequency sound
Impulsive sound bonus
+10 dBA daytime allowance

Summary

Roswell, Georgia's noise ordinance sets a separate C-weighted (dBC) limit alongside the standard dBA limit specifically to catch low-frequency bass that dBA measurement underweights, capping it at 60 dBC at night near homes and 70 dBC for industry.

C-weighing sound level is the sound pressure level in sound level meters using the C-weighting network as specified in ANSI or its successor body documents for sound level meters. This level is postscripted dB(C) or dBC and captures a lower frequency sound. Residential, public space, institutional, or noise sensitive facility 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. 60 60. Industrial or manufacturing At all times 70 70.

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 17 | Unified Development Code: Supplement 5).

Full Breakdown

Roswell's noise ordinance measures sound two ways: the standard A-weighted dBA reading, and a second C-weighted dBC reading that, per Section 8.8.3(s)(1), 'captures a lower frequency sound' -- the bass and rumble range that dBA measurement discounts. Table 1, at Section 8.8.3(s)(2), sets a parallel dBC ceiling next to every dBA limit: 70 dBC by day and 60 dBC at night for residential, public, and institutional property, and a flat 70 dBC for industrial and manufacturing sources at all times. Impulsive low-frequency sound gets an added 10 dBA daytime allowance under subsection (s)(2)b.

Violations & Fines

Failing to meet the dBC limit is enforced the same as a dBA exceedance: $100-$1,000 first offense, $500-$1,000 second offense, up to $2,000 and six months' jail thereafter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Roswell regulate bass separately from regular noise?
Yes. Section 8.8.3(s)(1)-(2) adds a C-weighted dBC limit alongside the dBA limit specifically because dBC 'captures a lower frequency sound' that standard dBA measurement underweights.
What's the nighttime bass limit near a home?
60 dBC, measured at the property line, from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m., under Table 1 of Section 8.8.3(s)(2).

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Roswell

Parking Rules: Street Parking LimitsSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Construction HoursSome RestrictionsCar Alarm LimitsSome RestrictionsBar & Nightclub NoiseSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Cat RulesLight RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Exotic PetsSome RestrictionsFire Regulations: Smoke DetectorsSome RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: Tree Removal & Heritage TreesSignificant Restrictions

All Roswell rules

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