Las Cruces, NM Noise from Specific Sources: Car Alarm Limits (2026)

The Las Cruces Code of Ordinances does not contain a section written to address car alarms specifically. The provision that comes closest, Sec. 19-123, governs "horns and signaling devices": it is a violation of the noise division to sound any horn or signaling device on an automobile, motorcycle, truck or other vehicle except as a danger warning, to create an unreasonable, loud or harsh sound with such a device, to sound it for an unnecessary or unreasonable length of time other than because of an accident or mechanical, electrical or other difficulty, or to use it while traffic is held up. Because the section is written around "signaling devices," Code Compliance applies it to a malfunctioning or improperly triggered vehicle alarm the same way it applies to horns.

A second, general rule backs this up. Sec. 19-121 makes it unlawful to make, continue or cause any loud or unusual noise that annoys, disturbs, injures or endangers the comfort, repose, health, peace or safety of others, and it sets an objective test: any loud or unusual noise audible to a person or police officer 30 feet or more from its source, or that causes a person or officer to feel accompanying vibration at that distance, is prima facie evidence of a violation. Sec. 19-133 sets the penalty for the entire noise division, including Sec. 19-123: a petty misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not less than $100.00 nor more than $500.00, up to 90 days in jail, with the minimum $100.00 fine barred from being suspended, deferred or held under advisement, though the court may suspend any remaining fine or jail time.