Warren, MI Noise from Specific Sources: Low-Frequency Bass Limits (2026)

Section 21-35(c) defines "plainly audible" as any sound that can be detected by a person using his or her unaided hearing faculties, and specifies that the enforcing officer need not determine the title of a specific sound, specific words, or the performing artist; the detection of the rhythmic bass component of music is sufficient to constitute a plainly audible sound. That standard feeds the operative limits in Sec. it is unlawful if plainly audible in a public place or residential neighborhood to anyone but the operator.

The city adopted this section, including the bass-specific language, by Ord. No. 80-677 on April 28, 2009, explaining its purpose as balancing the right to listen to radios and other devices against the public's right to a peaceful environment, and against the risk that loud broadcasts impede hearing approaching emergency sirens. Under subsection (d), the vehicle operator is presumed to have dominion and control over the broadcast source and is presumed responsible, though a passenger with constructive control or who aided and abetted can also be cited. Enforcement runs through Sec. 00 per violation.