Dayton, OH Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Noise limit
- 80 dB(A) at 15 feet
- Modified exhaust
- Separately prohibited
- Measurement standard
- ANSI Type II sound meter
- Legal status
- Declared a public nuisance
Summary
Dayton caps motor vehicle noise at 80 dB(A) measured 15 feet from the source, and separately bans excessive noise from a defective or modified exhaust or from unnecessary revving and tire squealing.
(B)No person shall cause noise levels from the operation of motor vehicles in excess of 80 dB(A) in any area within the city at any time. Such noise level limit of 80 dB(A) shall be based on a distance of not less than 15 feet from the noise source.(C)No person shall operate a motor vehicle which causes excessive noise levels as a result of a defective or modified exhaust system, or as a result of an unnecessary rapid acceleration, deceleration, revving, or tire squealing.(D)In any criminal prosecution for a violation of this section the court may admit evidence of a noise level as tested by any sound level meter which meets or exceeds the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) specifications for Type II equipment.(E)Any emission of noise from any motor vehicle source in excess of the limitations established by this section shall be deemed and is declared to be a public nuisance. (Ord. 26237, passed 5-13-81)
Cross reference— Penalty, see § 94.99.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 35).
Full Breakdown
Under R.C.G.O. § 94.10, no one may operate a motor vehicle in Dayton that produces noise above 80 dB(A), measured at a distance of not less than 15 feet from the source, at any time or place in the city. The same section separately prohibits excessive noise caused by a defective or deliberately modified exhaust system, or by unnecessary rapid acceleration, deceleration, engine revving, or tire squealing. Courts may accept readings from an ANSI Type II sound level meter as evidence, and any violation is declared a public nuisance.
Violations & Fines
Exceeding the 80 dB(A) limit, running a defective or modified exhaust, or unnecessary revving or tire squealing violates § 94.10 and is declared a public nuisance under city law.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Dayton measure vehicle noise?
Is a loud aftermarket exhaust illegal in Dayton?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Dayton
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