Mobile, AL Noise from Specific Sources: Car Alarm Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Max sounding time
- 15 minutes after activation
- Covers
- burglar alarms and security devices
- Vehicle alarms
- excluded from false-alarm permit rules
- Governing section
- Sec. 39-96.1(d)(5)
Summary
Burglar and security alarms in Mobile are exempt from the noise ordinance but must self-terminate within 15 minutes of activation.
Burglar alarm. The provisions of this section shall not apply to any burglar alarm or security device, provided, however, no burglar alarm or security device shall sound for more than fifteen (15) minutes after being activated.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 67).
Full Breakdown
Sec. 39-96.1(d)(5) exempts burglar alarms and security devices from the city's plainly-audible and decibel noise limits, but only if the alarm cannot sound more than 15 minutes after being triggered. Note that Mobile's separate false-alarm permitting scheme in Sec. 39-62 expressly excludes motor vehicle alarms from its false-alarm reporting and billing system, so vehicle alarms are governed by this 15-minute noise cap rather than the false-alarm permit program.
Violations & Fines
An alarm sounding past 15 minutes is an unlawful nuisance noise under Sec. 39-96.1(c), punishable under Chapter 1, Article II, City Code (1991).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a time limit on how long a car alarm can blare in Mobile?
Does Mobile's false-alarm permit program cover car alarms?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Mobile
Compare Mobile to another location·View the Alabama noise from specific sources overview
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