Acworth, GA Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

Two adjoining sections of Acworth's Article II (Noise Control) target vehicle and engine noise. Section 54-37, "Exhausts," makes it a violation to discharge into the open air the exhaust of any steam engine, stationary internal combustion engine or motorboat, except through a muffler or other device that will effectively prevent loud or explosive noises, so an unmuffled or modified exhaust that lets engine noise escape unchecked is independently cited under this section. Section 54-38, "Defect in vehicle or load," separately bans using any automobile, motorcycle or vehicle that is so out of repair, so loaded, or operated in such a manner as to create loud and unnecessary grating, grinding, rattling or other noise, covering rattling cargo, loose body panels or worn mechanical components rather than the exhaust system specifically.

Both sections derive from Code 1983 § 13-29(7) and (8) and cross-reference Chapter 90 (Traffic and Vehicles) for related vehicle-equipment standards, meaning a defective muffler or a load creating excessive noise can also implicate the city's traffic code. Neither section sets a decibel limit; the standard is whether the noise produced is "loud," "explosive" or "unnecessary" under the circumstances, which officers assess based on complaints and direct observation. 00, imprisonment up to six months, or city labor up to 60 days, with each day of continued operation a separate offense, prosecuted in Acworth Municipal Court.