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Milwaukee, WI Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 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?
Yes. City Code § 101-20 bans unnecessary and annoying vehicle noise, including excessive engine acceleration and squealing tires.
What's the fine for a loud muffler in Milwaukee?
A forfeiture of $100 to $200 plus prosecution costs; nonpayment can mean up to 8 days in jail.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Milwaukee

All Milwaukee rules

Compare Milwaukee to another location·View the Wisconsin noise ordinances overview

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Vehicle Noise in Nearby Cities

How other cities in Milwaukee County handle vehicle noise.

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