Berwyn, IL Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

Three divisions of § 666.02 govern vehicle noise. Division (A) covers horns and signaling devices. It bars sounding a horn or signaling device on an automobile, motorcycle, bus or other vehicle on a street or public place of the city except as a danger warning, creating any unreasonably loud or harsh sound with a signaling device, sounding a device for an unnecessary and unreasonable period of time, using any horn, whistle or other device operated by engine exhaust, and using a signaling device when traffic is for any reason held up.

Division (F) covers exhaust systems: the exhaust of a steam engine, stationary internal combustion engine or motor vehicle cannot be discharged into the open air except through a muffler or other device which will effectively prevent loud or explosive noises. Division (G) covers vehicle defects and loads, banning use of an automobile, motorcycle or other vehicle so out of repair, so loaded or in a manner as to create loud and unnecessary grating, grinding, rattling or other noise. Division (K) adds a rule for transporting iron or steel rails, pillars or columns over streets in a way that causes loud noises.

Stereo and boom box noise from a vehicle is handled in division (B), which applies a 75-foot audibility test, a fine of up to $750, and impoundment with a $500 penalty. Horns are allowed for danger warning, and the code offers no other horn exception. Muffler and load rules apply whether the vehicle is moving or parked, because they describe the equipment and its use rather than a speed or location.