Caldwell, ID Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

Caldwell addresses vehicle noise directly in City Code Section 07-13-04, titled 'Loud Amplification Devices Upon Or Within Motor Vehicles Prohibited; Air Compression Brakes Prohibited.' It is unlawful to operate a loud amplification or sound-producing device upon or within a motor vehicle so that the sound is plainly audible on a public right-of-way or street at a distance of fifty feet (50') or more from the source. The same section prohibits using air-compression brakes (commonly called engine or 'jake' brakes) by motor vehicles within the city limits, except in emergency circumstances where their use is necessary to prevent an accident or injury to persons or property; motor vehicles owned and operated by a fire department are exempt. Beyond Caldwell's own code, Idaho Code 49-937 requires every motor vehicle to have a muffler in good working order and in constant operation to prevent excessive or unusual noise, prohibits muffler cut-outs and bypasses on the highway, and bars modifying an exhaust system to amplify or increase noise above the original manufacturer's muffler. Vehicle horns and engine noise that disturb the peace at night may also fall under the general public noise rule (Section 07-13-03), which references automobiles and horns and sets quiet hours of 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.