Genesee County, MI Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing law
- State (MCL 257.707c)
- Passenger car <=35 mph
- 76 dBA at 50 feet
- Passenger car >35 mph
- 82 dBA at 50 feet
- Stationary run-up
- 95 dBA at tailpipe
- County rule
- None; state preempts road noise
Summary
Vehicle noise on Michigan roads is set by state law statewide, not by Genesee County. MCL 257.707c caps a passenger car at 76 dBA where the speed limit is 35 mph or under, and 82 dBA above 35 mph, measured at 50 feet.
A motor vehicle must not be operated or driven on a highway or street if the motor vehicle produces total noise exceeding 1 of the following limits at a distance of 50 feet:... Seventy-six DBA if the maximum lawful speed... is not more than 35 miles per hour.
Full Breakdown
Roadway motor-vehicle noise in Michigan is governed by state statute, so limits are uniform across Genesee County. MCL 257.707c prohibits operating a motor vehicle on a highway or street if it produces total noise exceeding the stated limits at 50 feet: for passenger cars, 76 dBA at 35 mph or under, 82 dBA above 35 mph, and 95 dBA on a stationary run-up test 20 inches from the tailpipe. Modifying an exhaust to increase noise beyond the vehicle's original level is also prohibited. Flint's local noise ordinance expressly defers to this state act (§ 31-77(d)). Off-road vehicle testing/repair that disturbs neighbors is separately covered by local noise rules.
Violations & Fines
State civil-infraction enforcement by police; equipment/exhaust violations under the Michigan Vehicle Code. Local noise rules add penalties for driveway vehicle-testing disturbances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Genesee County set a vehicle noise limit?
Is a loud muffler illegal in Flint?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Genesee County
Compare Genesee County to another location·View the Michigan noise ordinances overview
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