Brunswick County, NC Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

Sec. 1-9-563(3) of the Noise Ordinance sets two distance-based thresholds rather than a decibel meter: mechanical or exhaust noise from a motor vehicle or motorcycle that is plainly audible 200 feet or more from the vehicle is a violation, and sound-amplifying equipment (a car stereo or similar system) that is plainly audible 50 feet from the vehicle is a separate violation. Both apply anywhere within the county at any time of day; unlike the radio, loudspeaker and lawn-equipment provisions elsewhere in Sec. curfew window, so an exhaust or stereo that is loud enough can be cited in the middle of the afternoon.

A related but separate provision, Sec. 1-9-563(2), bans sounding a horn, whistle or other auditory device on a public right-of-way except as a warning of danger. "Plainly audible" carries the same definition used throughout the article: detectable by an ordinary unaided ear, with the rhythmic bass of music through a car door sufficient proof even if the specific song can't be identified. As with the rest of the article, this rule applies only within unincorporated Brunswick County; a vehicle parked or driving inside Oak Island, Southport, Leland or the county's other incorporated towns is subject to that town's own noise code instead. The Brunswick County Sheriff's Office enforces this provision on county roads and in unincorporated neighborhoods.