Milwaukee, WI Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Fine range
- $100-$200 forfeiture
- Max jail (unpaid fine)
- 8 days
- Covers
- tires, engine, muffler, alarms
- Code section
- § 101-20
Summary
Milwaukee bans squealing tires, revving engines, loud mufflers, and unattended car alarms, with fines of $100 to $200 per violation.
No person shall
make unnecessary and annoying noises with a
motor vehicle, by squealing tires, excessive
acceleration of engine, by emitting unnecessary
and loud muffler noises, or by suffering or
permitting his or her unattended motor vehicle's
audio alarm to be activated without evidence of
any tampering with the doors, locks, windows or
any other part of the motor vehicle.
2. PENALTY. Any person in violation
of this section shall upon conviction be subject to
a forfeiture of not less than $100 nor more than
$200 together with the costs of prosecution, and,
in default of payment thereof be confined in the
county jail or house of correction until such
forfeiture and costs are paid, but not to exceed 8
days.
Full Breakdown
City Code § 101-20 prohibits making unnecessary and annoying noises with a motor vehicle by squealing tires, excessive engine acceleration, loud muffler noise, or letting an unattended car alarm sound without evidence of tampering. A conviction carries a forfeiture of $100 to $200 plus costs of prosecution; unpaid forfeitures mean confinement in the county jail or house of correction for up to 8 days.
Violations & Fines
Forfeiture of $100-$200 plus prosecution costs; up to 8 days jail if unpaid.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is revving your engine loudly illegal in Milwaukee?
What's the fine for a loud muffler in Milwaukee?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Milwaukee
Compare Milwaukee to another location·View the Wisconsin noise ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Vehicle Noise in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Milwaukee County handle vehicle noise.