New Braunfels, TX Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

It shall be unlawful for the driver of any vehicle to use or operate or cause to be used or operated within the city limits of the city, any engine brake, compression brake, or mechanical exhaust device designed to aid in the braking or deceleration of any vehicle that results in excessive, loud, unusual, or explosive noise from such vehicle. For the purpose of this section, the term engine brake means a braking system used primarily on semi-trucks or other large vehicles that modifies engine valve operation to use engine compression to slow the vehicle. They are also known as compression release engine brakes.(b)Exception to the prohibition would be dictated by the circumstances on the roadway or with traffic on the roadway creating a situation where such use is necessary to avoid an accident or potential accident. The determination of whether or not the use of an engine exhaust brake system was necessary, reasonable and prudent under the then present conditions and circumstances shall rest with the police officer observing such use or the police officer's investigation.(c)Notice of this section shall be posted at the place where the boundary of the city joins or crosses any highway by an appropriate sign notifying motorists of the passage of this section.(d)Any person who violates any provision of this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor offense punishable by a fine not to exceed $500.00 for each offense. (Ord. No. 2008-16, § 2, 2-11-08)