Wayne, NJ Noise from Specific Sources: Low-Frequency Bass Limits (2026)

Wayne Township measures bass-heavy sound with a different yardstick than ordinary noise. Section 121-2 defines DBC as the sound level measured with the C weighting network, reported in dB(C), and states that the C weighting network is more sensitive to low frequencies than the A weighting network. Section 121-8 then applies it to any sound production device, which § 121-2 defines as a device whose primary function is producing sound, including a musical instrument, loudspeaker, radio, television, digital or analog music player, public address system or sound-amplifying equipment.

The test is an increase, not an absolute number. The sound must cross a property line and raise total sound levels above the neighborhood residual sound level by more than the Table IV limit, measured within the residence of a complainant with the meter on C weighting, fast response. Table IV is headed Maximum Permissible Increase In Total Sound Levels Within A Residential Property, with columns for week nights 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., weekend nights 11:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m., and all other times. The exported text prints two figures, 3 dB(C) and 6 dB(C), so confirm the column alignment on eCode360 before relying on either.

Section 121-6 B governs the indoor measurement. Readings are taken at least three feet from any wall, floor or ceiling, the investigator can close exterior doors and windows, the configuration must match for the residual and total readings, and every sound source inside the dwelling, such as a television or stereo, must be shut off. Hallways, closets and bathrooms are not measured.

Bass also matters without a meter. Under § 121-2, when the source is a portable or vehicular sound device, detecting the rhythmic bass component of the music is sufficient to verify plainly audible sound. Table III separately sets octave band limits starting at 31.5 Hz.