SJMC Chapter 20.100 lets Code Enforcement measure low-frequency bass on the C-weighted decibel scale and apply a 5 dB penalty when dB(C) minus dB(A) exceeds 10. Bass complaints from clubs, car audio, and home theaters can be cited even when A-weighted readings appear within limits.
Standard A-weighted decibel measurement underweights low-frequency bass that travels through walls and rattles windows. San Jose Municipal Code Chapter 20.100, drawing on California Office of Noise Control guidance, allows Code Enforcement officers to take both A-weighted and C-weighted readings at the receiving property line. When the dB(C) reading minus the dB(A) reading exceeds 10 decibels, a 5 dB penalty is added to the measured A-weighted level for enforcement purposes. This catches subwoofer-driven nightclub thump, modified car audio, and home-theater bass that would otherwise pass an A-weighted-only test. Officers use Type 1 or Type 2 sound level meters compliant with ANSI S1.4 standards.
Violations after the dB(C) bass penalty is applied are cited as standard SJMC 20.100 noise infractions starting at $250, escalating to $500 then $1,000 for repeat offenses within 12 months. Persistent club bass triggers permit revocation review.
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