Indianapolis, IN Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Code Section
- Indy Code section 391-302(c)(6)
- Modified exhaust
- Straight pipes, muffler cutouts, bypasses prohibited in public places
- Horns
- Unreasonable horn use barred (section 391-302(c)(1))
- Night trigger
- Plainly audible off-property 10:00 p.m. - 7:00 a.m. = prima facie violation
- Exemption
- Construction/maintenance-trade equipment
Summary
Indianapolis Revised Code section 391-302(c)(6) bans operating any vehicle, engine, or motor with straight pipes, muffler cutouts, bypasses, or exhaust that bypasses the muffler, and section 391-302(c)(1) prohibits unreasonable horn use, with off-property nighttime audibility (10 PM-7 AM) treated as prima facie evidence.
(6) Exhausts blowers, engines, and motors. The operation or use of any engine, motor, power unit on a motorboat, motor vehicle, motorcycle, or other vehicle or craft of any kind, blower or power fan in a manner that makes unreasonable noise and continuing to do so after being asked to stop, except when a permit granted therefor for some special occasion is in effect; or operation or possession in any public street or public place of the city of any motor vehicle, motorcycle, or other machine powered by an engine or motor equipped with straight pipes, baffles, muffler cutouts, bypasses, an expansion chamber, or any exhaust system constructed or capable of being operated so that the exhaust bypasses the muffler or noise-reducing device, except when a permit granted therefor for some special occasion is in effect.
Full Breakdown
Indianapolis regulates vehicle noise through several enumerated provisions of section 391-302(c). , or in a manner plainly audible off the property during those hours, is prima facie evidence of a violation. ' Construction, demolition, and maintenance equipment operators are exempted from the engine-noise prima facie rules under the closing language of (c)(6).
Violations & Fines
First violation in any twelve-month period: civil penalty via the ordinance violations bureau. Second violation: not less than $250.00; subsequent violations: not less than $500.00 (section 391-302(d)).
Frequently Asked Questions
Are loud aftermarket exhausts legal in Indianapolis?
Can I honk to get a friend's attention?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Indianapolis
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