Polk County, FL Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Audible test
- Plainly audible 50 feet from vehicle
- Stereo fines
- $100 / $250 / $500
- Code sections
- Sec. 10.5-60 and 10.5-55(3)
- Bass rule
- Rhythmic bass enough to cite
- Driving noise
- No screeching tires or revving
Summary
Polk County prohibits vehicle sound systems plainly audible 50 feet away and manner-of-driving noise such as screeching tires or repeated revving. Car-stereo violations carry escalating fines of $100, $250, then $500.
It is unlawful for any person who operates or occupies a motor vehicle in Polk County, Florida, to operate or amplify the sound produced by a radio or other mechanical or electrical sound making device or instrument from within the motor vehicle so that the sound is unreasonably excessive.
(2) To determine whether sound is "plainly audible," measurements shall be taken in accordance with the following:
a. The primary means of detection shall be by means of the law enforcement officer's ordinary auditory senses, so long as the law enforcement officer's hearing is not enhanced by any device, such as a microphone or hearing aid.
b. The law enforcement officer must have a direct line of sight and hearing to the motor vehicle producing the sound so that the law enforcement officer can readily identify the offending motor vehicle and the distance involved.
c. The law enforcement officer need not determine the particular words or phrases being produced or the name of any song or artist producing the sound. The detection of a rhythmic bass reverberating type sound is sufficient to constitute a plainly audible sound.
(3) Penalties. In accordance with Section 125.69, Florida Statutes, any person, entity, group, representative, or corporation violating any provision of this section, shall be subject to the following penalties:
a. First offense: A fine of one hundred dollars ($100.00).
b. Second offense: A fine of two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00).
c.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 109 | Land Development Code: Supplement 12).
Full Breakdown
Two provisions apply. Sec. 10.5-60 makes it unlawful to amplify a radio or sound device in a motor vehicle so the sound is "unreasonably excessive", defined as plainly audible 50 feet or more from the vehicle; a detected rhythmic bass sound is enough. Sec. 10.5-55(3) separately bars driving that repeatedly screeches tires, or repeatedly accelerates/decelerates or shifts gears so as to create a noise disturbance. These apply in unincorporated Polk County and, for Sec. 10.5-60, to municipalities that have not opted out.
Violations & Fines
Car-stereo (Sec. 10.5-60) fines: $100 first offense, $250 second, $500 third or subsequent (per FS 125.69). Manner-of-driving noise (Sec. 10.5-55) is enforceable as a noise disturbance under Sec. 10.5-54 (up to $500 / 60 days).
Frequently Asked Questions
How far can my car stereo be heard legally?
What are the fines for a loud car stereo?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Polk County
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Polk County to another location·View the Florida noise ordinances overview
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