Worcester, MA Noise from Specific Sources: Low-Frequency Bass Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing definition
- Rhythmic bass detection alone is "plainly audible"
- Distance threshold
- 25 feet from device or premises
- Fine per violation
- $50, noncriminal disposition
- Enforcing agency
- Worcester Police Department
- Legal basis for citations
- G.L. c. 40, § 21D
Summary
Worcester's noise ordinance does not need officers to identify a song or lyrics to write a bass-noise ticket. Detecting the rhythmic bass component of music alone counts as "plainly audible," and any electronic sound reproduction device audible 25 feet away in a public place violates Chapter 9, Section 1A.
Plainly Audible - means any sound that can be detected by a person using his or her unaided hearing faculties. (As an example, if the sound source under investigation is a portable or personal vehicular sound amplification or reproduction device, the enforcement officer need not determine the title of a song, specific words, or the artist performing the song. The detection of the rhythmic base component of the music is sufficient to constitute a plainly audible sound.) ... No person shall operate any electronic sound reproduction device so as to create sound which is plainly audible in a public place at a distance of 25 feet or more in any direction from the device or the premises containing the device, whichever is greater.
Full Breakdown
" That definition is written specifically to reach thumping bass that carries through walls or car doors even when the melody or lyrics are inaudible. " A companion rule in Section 1A(e)(2) covers portable, hand-held speakers at the same 25-foot threshold. Together these sections let Worcester police cite a bass source, whether a home stereo, portable speaker, or party sound system, based on distance and rhythm detection rather than a decibel meter reading. c. 40, § 21D by the police chief, any city police officer, or another designated enforcing official.
There is no separate permit or waiver process in this chapter for temporary amplified sound; the only carve-outs listed in the surrounding subsections apply to trains, boats, aircraft at Worcester Regional Airport, and permitted fireworks displays, none of which apply to a bass-heavy stereo or party speaker.
Violations & Fines
Each violation of Chapter 9, Section 1A carries a flat $50 fine, handled through the noncriminal disposition process under G.L. c. 40, § 21D rather than criminal court. Worcester police officers, and any other city official designated an "enforcing person" under Chapter 15, can issue the citation on the spot once the bass is plainly audible 25 feet from the device or the property line.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be cited for bass noise even if the officer can't name the song?
How far does my speaker's bass have to carry to break the rule?
What's the fine for a bass noise violation in Worcester?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Worcester
Compare Worcester to another location·View the Massachusetts noise from specific sources overview
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