Queen Creek, AZ Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

Town Code Section 9-6-3 (Motor Vehicles), within Article 9-6 adopted by Ordinance 764-21, makes it unlawful to operate a motor vehicle that is not equipped at all times with an exhaust system and muffler in good working order and constant operation that prevents loud, excessive, or unreasonable noise; to operate a vehicle with any device or modification that eliminates or diminishes the muffler's noise-inhibiting function; or to operate a vehicle so as to cause it to emit excessive or unreasonable noise. The section gives examples without limitation: revving the engine for purposes unrelated to locomotion; causing tires to screech or squeal from excessive speed, rapid acceleration, or aggressive maneuvering unrelated to avoiding immediate danger; operating a vehicle that backfires at regular or frequent intervals; honking a horn except as authorized by A.R.S. Section 28-954; and deceleration through practices commonly known as engine braking and/or Jake braking. The section does not prohibit servicing, repairing, or testing a vehicle that causes it to emit noise, provided it is done between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. and in a manner that prevents excessive or unreasonable noise. A violation is a Civil Offense. Because horn use is tied to A.R.S. Section 28-954, the state vehicle code controls when a horn may lawfully be sounded.