Folsom, CA Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Muffler Required
- CVC §27150
- dBA Limit
- 80 dBA @ 50 ft (cars)
- Sideshows
- CVC §23109 misdemeanor
- Stationary Noise
- FMC §8.42
- Referee
- BAR inspection required
Summary
Modified exhaust, loud mufflers, and excessive acceleration on Folsom streets violate CA Vehicle Code §27150-27151 (muffler requirement) and §23130 (vehicle noise limits). Folsom Police enforce both state vehicle code and Folsom Municipal Code §8.42 for stationary vehicle noise.
27150.
(a) Every motor vehicle equipped with an internal combustion engine and subject to registration shall at all times be equipped with an adequate muffler in constant operation and properly maintained to prevent any excessive or unusual noise, and no muffler or exhaust system shall be equipped with a cutout, bypass, or similar device.
(b) Except as provided in Division 16.5 (commencing with Section 38000) with respect to off-highway motor vehicles subject to identification, every passenger vehicle operated off the highways shall at all times be equipped with an adequate muffler in constant operation and properly maintained so as to meet the requirements of Article 2.5 (commencing with Section 27200), and no muffler or exhaust system shall be equipped with a cutout, bypass, or similar device.
(c) The provisions of subdivision (b) shall not be applicable to passenger vehicles being operated off the highways in an organized racing or competitive event conducted under the auspices of a recognized sanctioning body or by permit issued by the local governmental authority having jurisdiction, or to vehicles not equipped with an internal combustion engine. (Amended by Stats. 2021, Ch. 428, Sec. 9. (SB 570) Effective January 1, 2022.)
Official source re-checked September 8, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
California Vehicle Code §27150 requires every motor vehicle to be equipped with an adequate muffler to prevent excessive or unusual noise. §27151 specifically prohibits modifications that amplify or increase exhaust noise above factory levels. CVC §23130 establishes dBA limits by vehicle weight class (passenger cars cannot exceed 80 dBA at 50 feet). Folsom Police conduct enforcement on East Bidwell, Folsom Boulevard, and Highway 50 corridor routes popular with modified-vehicle drivers. Stationary vehicle noise (idling stereos, revving engines in driveways) additionally falls under FMC §8.42. 'Sideshow' or street takeover activity triggers VC §23109 exhibition of speed charges.
Violations & Fines
CVC §27150/27151 citation ~$25-$196 plus referee inspection requirement. Sideshow/exhibition: misdemeanor with vehicle impound up to 30 days.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a loud exhaust illegal in Folsom?
What about motorcycles?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Folsom
California rules heatmap·Compare Folsom to another location·View the California noise ordinances overview
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