Springfield, MO Noise from Specific Sources: Low-Frequency Bass Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Nighttime hours
- 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.
- Test
- Audible 50+ feet from speakers
- Governing section
- City Code § 78-115(1)c
- Also covers
- Car stereos on public streets
- Adopted
- G.O. No. 6330, Jan. 2017
Summary
Springfield bans running any amplified sound system between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. if the bass or other sound carries 50 feet or more from the speakers.
Operate the sound amplification system after 11:00 p.m. and before 7:00 a.m. where the sound generated is plainly audible at a distance of 50 or more feet from the speakers of the system.(2)The provisions of this section shall not prohibit any activities specifically permitted or authorized by other provisions of the City Code. (G.O. No. 6330, § 3, 1-9-2017)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 23 Update 2 | Land Development Code: Supplement 9 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Springfield City Code § 78-115(1)c prohibits operating an amplified sound system, the kind that produces the bass neighbors typically complain about, after 11:00 p.m. and before 7:00 a.m. if the sound is plainly audible at a distance of 50 feet or more from the speakers. The rule sits alongside § 78-113(2)d.2, which applies the same 50-foot, plainly-audible test to car stereo systems parked or driving on a public street at any hour. Springfield Police Department enforces both; violations are prosecuted as City Code offenses under § 1-7's general penalty provision.
Violations & Fines
A violation of § 78-115(1)c is a City Code offense punishable under the general penalty provision, § 1-7; officers use the 50-foot plainly-audible test to establish the violation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get cited for loud bass at night in Springfield?
Does this cover car stereos too?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Springfield
Compare Springfield to another location·View the Missouri noise from specific sources overview
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