Longview, TX Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Stereo audibility limit
- Heard 50 feet away is unlawful
- Muffler requirement
- Exhaust must run through effective muffler
- Engine/Jake brakes
- Excessive brake noise banned outright
- Max fine
- Up to $500 per offense
- Governing section
- Sec. 58-21(b), Code of Ordinances
Summary
Longview prohibits vehicle stereos audible past 50 feet, exhaust discharged without an effective muffler, and engine-brake devices that create excessive, loud, or explosive noise on city streets.
(1) the playing of any radio, stereo, phonograph, musical instrument, or similar device in such manner or with such volume so as to be heard at least 50 feet away...(3) the discharge into open air of the exhaust of any steam or internal combustion engine...except through a muffler...(9) the use or operation of any device...on any motor vehicle, designed to aid in the braking, decompression, or deceleration which results in the excessive, loud, unusual or explosive noise from such vehicle.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: June 2026: This code is current through Ordinances 4635 passed 06.25.26).
Full Breakdown
Longview's noise ordinance targets three vehicle-related sources under Sec. 58-21(b). Playing a car radio, stereo, or similar device loud enough to be heard 50 feet away, or that offends nearby persons, is unlawful. Discharging engine exhaust into the open air without an effective muffler is also banned. Separately, using any vehicle-mounted braking, decompression, or deceleration device, an engine or "Jake" brake, that produces excessive, loud, unusual, or explosive noise is prohibited outright, regardless of decibel measurement. Violations fall under the code's general penalty provision, since Chapter 58 sets no violation-specific fine.
Violations & Fines
Sec. 58-21 violations fall under Longview's general penalty (Sec. 1-4): a fine up to $500, since noise isn't a fire-safety, zoning, or health case; each day of continuance is a separate offense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I play loud music in my car in Longview?
Are aftermarket exhaust or engine brakes illegal in Longview?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Longview
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Longview to another location·View the Texas noise ordinances overview
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