Leander, TX Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

Leander addresses vehicle and mechanical-equipment noise in Section 8.04.002(d) of the Code of Ordinances. The ordinance prohibits the continued or frequent sounding of any horn or signal device on an automobile or other vehicle except as a danger or warning signal, and bars creating an unreasonably loud or harsh noise with such a device for any unnecessary purpose or for an unreasonable period. It also prohibits blowing any steam whistle attached to a stationary boiler except to signal start/stop of work or to warn of danger. A key provision targets exhaust noise: discharging into the open air the exhaust of any fixed and stationary steam engine, stationary internal combustion engine, or motor vehicle or boat engine is prohibited 'except through an exhaust system in good working order and in constant operation to prevent excessive or unusual noise,' which effectively requires a functioning muffler (this subsection does not apply to trains and locomotives). Finally, using any mechanical device operated by compressed air is prohibited unless the noise has been effectively muffled and reduced to comply with the ordinance. Beyond these specific prohibitions, vehicle noise audible at a property line must remain within the zone's general decibel caps (for instance, 65 dBA day / 55 dBA night in residential areas). State law (Texas Transportation Code) separately requires mufflers and prohibits modified exhaust that increases noise above the original system.