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Bishop, CA Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

Significant Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified July 2026

Key Facts

Code section
BMC 8.12.020(A),(I),(N)
Horns
Danger warning only
Exhaust
Effective muffler required
Examples
Screeching, revving, backfiring
Diesel idling
Prohibited if disturbing

Summary

Bishop prohibits excessive or unusual motor-vehicle noise, needless horn use and running engines without an effective muffler. Screeching tires, revving, backfiring and loud exhaust are all cited examples of unlawful vehicle noise.

Motor vehicle noises. Any excessive, unusual, loud or disturbing noise made by any motor vehicle and not reasonably necessary in its operation under the circumstances and shall include, but not be limited to, noise caused by screeching of tires, racing or accelerating the engine, backfiring the engine and exhaust from the engine tailpipe or muffler.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 4).

Full Breakdown

Bishop Municipal Code § 8.12.020 lists several vehicle-noise offenses: (A) sounding a horn or signaling device except as a danger warning, or for an unnecessary period; (I) discharging engine exhaust into the open air except through an effective muffler; and (N) 'any excessive, unusual, loud or disturbing noise made by any motor vehicle... including, but not limited to, noise caused by screeching of tires, racing or accelerating the engine, backfiring the engine and exhaust from the engine tailpipe or muffler.' Idling diesel trucks or buses that disturb residents (F) are also prohibited. These city rules complement California Vehicle Code muffler and noise requirements enforced by police.

Violations & Fines

Prohibited noises under BMC 8.12.020(A),(F),(I),(N); citable by Bishop Police, alongside California Vehicle Code muffler/exhaust enforcement.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a loud modified exhaust illegal in Bishop?
Yes. Discharging exhaust without an effective muffler and loud vehicle noise from exhaust or revving are prohibited under BMC 8.12.020.
Can I honk to greet a friend?
No. Horns may be used only as a danger warning; needless or prolonged honking is a prohibited noise.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Bishop

Parking Rules: Overnight ParkingSome RestrictionsQuiet HoursHeavy RestrictionsConstruction HoursHeavy RestrictionsLeaf Blower RulesSome RestrictionsDecibel LimitsSome RestrictionsAmplified Music & Outdoor SoundSome RestrictionsBarking DogsSignificant RestrictionsParking Rules: Curb Color RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesHeavy RestrictionsParking Rules: Commercial & Oversized VehiclesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Driveway RulesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Abandoned VehiclesLight Restrictions

All Bishop rules

California rules heatmap·Compare Bishop to another location·View the California noise ordinances overview

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