Newton County, GA Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

The county's noise article, Article V of Chapter 36, defines a baseline standard at Sec. 36-106: any loud, unnecessary or unusual sound that unreasonably disturbs another person and carries more than 75 feet from its source is unlawful in unincorporated Newton County. Sec. 36-107 then enumerates specific violations, and two apply directly to vehicles. First, sounding a horn or other signaling device on an automobile, motorcycle or other vehicle on any street or public place for an excessive period, or making it unreasonably loud or harsh, is a violation.

Second, operating a noise-creating blower, power fan or internal combustion engine that causes noise from exploding gases or fluids is prohibited unless the engine carries a muffler device reasonably sufficient to deaden the noise, which reaches straight-pipe exhausts and modified mufflers on cars and motorcycles. The ordinance separately regulates vehicle stereos and sound systems under Sec. is treated as prima facie evidence of a violation. Sec. 36-108 exempts county vehicles on public business, emergency vehicles, and safety and warning devices. A property owner who believes compliance would create an unreasonable hardship may apply to the Department of Development Services for a special variance under Sec. 36-110, which the Board of Zoning Appeals decides and which can be appealed to the Board of Commissioners within ten days.