Calaveras County, CA Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

In unincorporated Calaveras County, vehicle noise is governed by two layers. The County's General Plan Noise Element states that intermittent and occasional noise from vehicles and outdoor recreational activities is addressed through the County's Noise Ordinance (Chapter 9.02 of the Calaveras County Code), which is enforced primarily in response to complaints. Under Section 9.02.030, a vehicle or stationary engine that exceeds the background level by 10 dBA in the day or 5 dBA at night at a receiving property line can be a noise disturbance. However, noise from vehicles operated on public roads is principally regulated by California state law. The California Vehicle Code requires every motor vehicle to have an adequate muffler in good working order and prohibits modified exhaust or 'cutout' systems that amplify noise (Vehicle Code sections 27150-27151), and sets maximum noise limits by vehicle type (Vehicle Code section 23130). These on-road rules are enforced by the Calaveras County Sheriff and the California Highway Patrol, not by the county noise ordinance. The county ordinance also separately regulates pleasure motor boat noise. All county provisions apply to the unincorporated area only.