Apple Valley, CA Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

Vehicle noise in the Town of Apple Valley is handled in Section 9.73.070, 'Motor Vehicles Operating on Public Right-Of-Way.' The code states that 'motor vehicle noise limits on a public rights-of-way are regulated as set forth in the California Motor Vehicle [Vehicle] Code, Sections 23130 and 23130.5. Equipment violations which create noise problems are covered under Sections 27150 and 27151.' In other words, on public streets the state Vehicle Code controls measured noise limits and muffler/exhaust requirements, enforceable by peace officers - the Town does not set its own roadway dBA figures. Section 9.73.070 then layers on local provisions: (A) refuse-collection vehicles, which cannot collect near residences between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m., with garbage equipment limited to 80 dBA measured 50 feet away; (B) motor-vehicle horns, referencing Vehicle Code Section 27001; (C) motorized recreational vehicles operating off public rights-of-way; (D) motorboats; and (E) standing/idling vehicles, which restrict heavy vehicles (over 10,000 lbs GVWR) from idling more than 15 minutes in any hour between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. within 150 feet of residences. Because on-street vehicle noise is largely state-controlled, the Town's distinctive rules are the local hour and distance limits on refuse trucks, idling, and off-road/recreational use.