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Murfreesboro, TN Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Muffler
required, good working order
Exhaust cutouts/bypasses
prohibited
Car stereo
unlawful if audible at 50 ft
Horn limit
90 dBA at 100 feet

Summary

Murfreesboro requires a working muffler on every vehicle, bans cutout or bypass exhaust systems, and prohibits tire-squealing acceleration and car stereos loud enough to hear 50 feet from the vehicle.

(a)No person shall drive a motor vehicle on a public highway unless it is equipped with a muffler or other sound-dissipative device in good working order and in constant operation to prevent excessive or unusual noise.(b)No person shall operate a motor vehicle on a street or highway with an exhaust system utilizing a cutout, bypass or similar device.(c)No person shall operate a motor vehicle in such a manner as to cause or allow to be emitted squealing, screeching, or other such noise from the tires...

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 18 Update 1).

Full Breakdown

Code § 21-106(G)(3) bars operating a motor vehicle so as to cause any greater noise than necessary for proper operation. Every vehicle on a public street must run a muffler or other sound-dissipative device in good working order; exhaust systems fitted with a cutout, bypass or similar device are unlawful; and tire squeal from rapid acceleration or hard cornering is prohibited except to avoid imminent danger. A separate subsection makes an in-vehicle sound system audible to the human ear at 50 feet from the vehicle prima facie evidence of a violation, and horns exceeding 90 dBA at 100 feet are also barred.

Violations & Fines

Enforced by qualified Noise Control Officers using a sound level meter; penalties run under Murfreesboro City Code § 1-8, with repeat half-hour violations charged separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a loud car stereo illegal in Murfreesboro?
Yes - a sound system audible to the human ear 50 feet from the vehicle is prima facie evidence of a violation under Code § 21-106(G)(2).
Are aftermarket exhaust cutouts legal?
No - Code § 21-106(G)(3)(b) bars operating a vehicle with an exhaust system using a cutout, bypass, or similar device.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Murfreesboro

Parking Rules: Street Parking LimitsSome RestrictionsQuiet HoursSome RestrictionsConstruction HoursSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Height LimitsSome RestrictionsDecibel LimitsSome RestrictionsBarking DogsSome RestrictionsAmplified Music & Outdoor SoundSome RestrictionsLeaf Blower RulesSome RestrictionsAircraft NoiseFew RestrictionsParking Rules: EV ChargingLight RestrictionsParking Rules: Abandoned VehiclesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Commercial & Oversized VehiclesSignificant Restrictions

All Murfreesboro rules

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