CMC §9.38.056 regulates vehicle sound systems and horns. Sound amplification audible >50 ft from a vehicle on public property (other than a highway), or >25 ft / beyond the property line on private property, is prohibited. Vehicle horns may not be sounded when at rest absent imminent danger. Highway vehicle noise is governed by the California Vehicle Code (preempted from local meter limits).
Section 9.38.056(A) — sound amplification on public property (not a highway): audible >50 ft from the vehicle is a violation. On private property: audible >25 ft from the vehicle OR beyond the property line (whichever is greater). On a public highway: noise is governed by the California Vehicle Code, not the local ordinance — see Cal. Veh. Code §27007 (amplifying devices audible 50 ft) and §§27150–27160 (mufflers, modified exhaust). Section 9.38.056(B) — bicycle-mounted sound systems audible >50 ft on highway, public park, public parking lot, or other public property are prohibited. Section 9.38.056(C) — horns may not be used when a vehicle is at rest or when no situation endangering life, health, or property is imminent (consistent with Cal. Veh. Code §27001). Section 9.38.015(B) carves out an exception to the citizen-complaint requirement: §9.38.056 may be enforced proactively by an officer, no prior complaint required.
Infraction under §9.38.130 (minimums: $250 / $500 / $1,000). Highway-based modified exhaust or excessive amplification is cited under the California Vehicle Code, not the CMC. Officer discretion under §9.38.054 (warning vs. citation) does not apply to §9.38.056 — direct citation is authorized.
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