Wichita, KS Noise from Specific Sources: Low-Frequency Bass Limits (2026)

Sec. 380(a) bars operating or permitting the operation of a "sound amplification system" from inside a vehicle so the sound is plainly audible 50 feet or more away. Subsection (b) defines a sound amplification system broadly: any radio, tape player, compact disc player, loudspeaker or other electronic sound-amplifying device. Subsection (c) defines "plainly audible" using the officer's own hearing (auditory senses, direct line of sight), specifies that individual words or lyrics need not be distinguishable, and expressly states that bass reverberations are included, so a booming subwoofer that cannot be understood as music or speech still counts.

The section applies whether the vehicle is stopped, standing, parked or moving. Subsection (d) lists five affirmative defenses the operator must prove: the system was used to summon medical or vehicular help or warn of a hazardous road condition; the vehicle was an emergency or public safety vehicle; the vehicle was owned and operated by the city or a gas, electric, communications or refuse company; the system was giving instructions, directions or lectures, or transmitting music, in compliance with the Code; or the vehicle was used in a city-approved public activity such as a parade, fireworks display, sports event or musical production.

Subsection (e) makes the $50 fine on conviction mandatory, and the court "shall not waive, remit, suspend, parole or otherwise excuse the payment thereof," except that a judge may substitute community service after the defendant files a financial affidavit under Sec. 210(e) showing an inability to pay.