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Las Vegas, NV Noise from Specific Sources: Generator Noise (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Governing chapter
LVMC 9.16 - Noise
Core requirement
Muffler on stationary engines
Covers
Portable & standby generators
Penalty
Misdemeanor citation
Also applies
General noise-disturbance ban

Summary

City code treats an unmuffled generator as a prohibited noise disturbance: exhaust from any stationary engine must run through a muffler or sound-dissipation device that stops loud or explosive noise.

The discharge into the open air of the exhaust of any steam engine, stationary internal combustion engine, motor vehicle or motor boat engine except through a muffler or other sound dissipation device which will effectively prevent loud or explosive noises therefrom.

Source: Las Vegas Film OfficeView official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 61).

Full Breakdown

Las Vegas's noise ordinance folds generator noise into its general ban on unmuffled engine exhaust. LVMC 9.16.030(G) makes it a prohibited noise disturbance to discharge exhaust from any stationary internal combustion engine, including portable and standby generators, into the open air unless it passes through a muffler or sound-dissipation device that effectively prevents loud or explosive noise. The chapter's broader ban on any noise disturbance that disrupts a reasonable person's peace (9.16.020) applies independently, so a properly muffled generator can still draw a citation if it runs loud enough, long enough, or late enough to disturb neighbors.

Violations & Fines

Violating the muffler requirement or causing a noise disturbance is a misdemeanor citywide under LVMC 9.16.050; the escalating dollar fines in that section apply only to the amplified-sound and alarm subsections, not this one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I run a portable generator at my Las Vegas home?
Yes, but its exhaust must pass through a muffler or sound-dissipation device that prevents loud or explosive noise, per LVMC 9.16.030(G).
What if my generator is muffled but a neighbor still complains?
It can still be cited as a general noise disturbance under LVMC 9.16.020, which bars any noise disrupting a reasonable person's peace, muffler or not.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Las Vegas

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All Las Vegas rules

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