Moore County, NC Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

Sec. 10-41(b)(2), 'Blowing horns,' bars sounding any horn, whistle or signal device on an automobile, motorcycle, bus, other vehicle or railroad train, except as a danger signal or as required by law, in a way that creates unreasonable, loud, raucous, disturbing or unnecessary sound, and specifically bars sounding such a device, whether mounted on a vehicle or not, intermittently or continuously for more than 30 seconds. Sec. 10-41(b)(7), 'Operation of vehicles,' separately covers exhaust and mechanical noise: it bars noise from any motor vehicle or internal combustion engine not properly equipped with the manufacturer's standard mufflers or noise-reducing equipment in use or in proper operating condition, and it bars operating a vehicle in a manner that creates loud or unnecessary grating, grinding, rattling or other noise beyond its normal designed operation.

Together the two subsections reach a leaned-on horn, a modified or missing muffler, and reckless driving noise like excessive engine revving or gear grinding. None of the Sec. 10-42 exemptions cover horns or exhaust noise; the closest, item (2), only exempts OSHA or government-required safety warning devices. Enforcement is by the Moore County Sheriff under Sec. 00 total if the county must sue to collect, with each violation treated as a separate offense.