Yuba County, CA Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

Noise from motor vehicles on public roads is primarily a matter of state law statewide, including in unincorporated Yuba County. California Vehicle Code Section 27150 requires every vehicle to have an adequate muffler in constant operation and prohibits exhaust cutouts or bypasses, and Section 27151 makes it illegal to modify an exhaust system so it amplifies or increases vehicle noise; for vehicles under 6,000 pounds (other than motorcycles), an exhaust producing 95 dBA or less when tested to the applicable SAE standard complies. California Vehicle Code Section 23130 sets noise limits for vehicles operating on the highway. These provisions are enforced by the Yuba County Sheriff's Office and the California Highway Patrol. Vehicle-related noise that is not on a public highway -- such as repeatedly revving an engine on private property or other stationary vehicle noise -- can also disturb the peace under Yuba County Code Chapter 8.20 (Section 8.20.610). These County rules apply in unincorporated Yuba County; Marysville and Wheatland enforce their own ordinances, and Yuba City is in Sutter County.