Kenner, LA Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

Kenner Code of Ordinances Sec. 7-166(b)(7) declares it unlawful to discharge into the open air the exhaust of any steam engine, stationary internal combustion engine, motor boat, or motor vehicle except through a muffler or other device that effectively prevents loud or explosive noises, meaning a straight-piped or defective exhaust is itself the violation regardless of decibel level. Subsection (8) separately reaches vehicles so out of repair, so loaded, or otherwise operated in a manner that creates loud and unnecessary grating, grinding, rattling, or other noise, covering mechanical defects beyond the exhaust system.

A more specific and more recent provision, Sec. 7-167, targets vehicle sound systems directly: no operator or passenger of a motor vehicle may operate, or permit the operation of, a sound amplification system, defined to include a radio, tape player, compact disc player, loudspeaker, or similar device, that can be heard outside the vehicle from 12 or more feet away while the vehicle is on a street or highway. Section 7-167 exempts systems used to request medical or vehicular assistance or to warn of a hazardous road condition, emergency or public safety vehicles, vehicles owned by the City of Kenner or a utility company, and vehicles operating in a permitted parade.

Together the three provisions give Kenner Police Department officers separate grounds to stop excessive exhaust noise, general vehicle-defect noise, and loud car stereo noise on the city's streets.