New Orleans, LA Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

City Code § 66-206 sets Table 2 sound-level limits for motor vehicles in motion, measured at 50 feet from the vehicle path: 86 dBA at speeds of 40 mph or less (90 dBA above 40 mph) for vehicles rated 10,000 pounds GVWR or more, 76 dBA (82 dBA above 40 mph) for any other vehicle, and 82 dBA (86 dBA above 40 mph) for motorcycles. The section also sets stationary 'static' test limits: 93 dBA measured 25 feet from a vehicle of at least 6,000 pounds, and 95 dBA measured 20 inches from the exhaust outlet of a lighter, non-motorcycle vehicle.

Section 66-207 then bans the underlying causes: no person may operate a vehicle whose muffler exceeds the § 66-206 levels, and no one may remove or puncture a muffler, baffle, or header pipe, or otherwise modify an exhaust system, in a way that pushes the vehicle over the limit. Removing or disabling a muffler or sound-dissipating device is prohibited except for maintenance, repair, or replacement. Off-road vehicles operated off a public right-of-way and vehicle repair, rebuilding, or testing that exceeds the applicable land-use noise category are separately banned.

Motorcycles get an additional, motorcycle-specific rule at § 154-1474: they must be equipped with a working muffler at all times, may not use a muffler cutout or bypass, and may not have an exhaust system modified to amplify noise beyond the original equipment. The noise program is jointly administered by the director of the department of health and the superintendent of police under § 66-137, who may inspect, test, and prosecute or enjoin violators.