Apex, NC Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

The playing of any radio, cassette player, compact disc, video tape, or disc, or other similar device for reproducing sound located on or in any motor vehicle on a public street, highway, within any public vehicular area, or on the premises of a private residence, if the sound generated or noise vibration emitted is plainly audible or can be felt at a distance of 50 feet or more from the radio, cassette player, compact disc, video tape or disc, or other similar device that is producing the sound.(18)The use or operation, on public places, town rights-of-way, or on public vehicular areas of any sound amplifier, bullhorn, loudspeaker, public address system, or other similar device, when operated in such a manner as to be plainly audible during (i) nighttime hours at a distance of 50 feet from any reasonable person, or (ii) during daytime hours, at a distance of 300 feet from any reasonable person, other than the player(s) or operator(s) of the device, and those who are voluntarily listening to the sound, and unreasonably disturbs a reasonable person. This prohibition shall not apply to the operation of horns, sirens, or other emergency warning devices actually being used in emergency circumstances, or the operation of sound amplification equipment in accordance with a permit issued pursuant to section 14-34.(b)A violation of this section is punishable as a misdemeanor as provided by G.S. 14-4.