Allentown, PA Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

Allentown's motor-vehicle noise rules are in Article 710.03(C)(12) of the Noise Control ordinance (Chapter 400). Subsection (a) requires that 'every motor vehicle shall be equipped with a muffler or other effective noise suppressing system in good working order and in constant operation and no muffler or exhaust system shall be equipped with a cutout, bypass or similar device so as to cause a noise disturbance.' Subsection (b) prohibits operating a stationary vehicle or its auxiliary equipment 'for a period longer than fifteen (15) minutes in any hour' (excluding traffic congestion) on a public way within 150 feet of a residential area. Subsection (c) limits horn use to when 'absolutely necessary as a warning while actually driving.' Subsection (d) bars sound-amplifying equipment mounted on a vehicle (sound trucks) where it creates a disturbance across a property boundary or between 9:00 P.M. and 7:00 A.M. on public ways. Subsection (e) prohibits in-vehicle sound-amplifying systems causing a disturbance on public ways, except to request assistance or warn of hazard, and exempts authorized emergency vehicles. These overlay Pennsylvania Vehicle Code muffler requirements (75 Pa.C.S. section 4523).