Reading, PA Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

Section 387-105(A) provides that no person may operate a motor vehicle or motorcycle on a public right-of-way 'in such a manner that the sound level emitted by the motor vehicle or motorcycle, or any equipment attached to such a vehicle exceeds the level set forth in Pennsylvania Code, Title 67, Chapter 157, Established Sound Levels.' That state rule (67 Pa. Code §§ 157.1-157.13) sets decibel limits keyed to vehicle weight class and speed. Section 387-104(I) goes further by prohibiting any person from removing or rendering inoperative a muffler or sound-dissipative device — except for maintenance, repair, or replacement — and from knowingly using a vehicle with such a device removed. The underlying Pennsylvania Vehicle Code requirement is 75 Pa.C.S. § 4523, which mandates that every motor vehicle have a properly maintained muffler that prevents 'excessive or unusual noise.' Stationary-vehicle idling beyond 15 minutes within 150 feet of a residence (where the sound disturbs across a property line) is barred by § 387-105(B). Sound trucks (mounted PA systems) must not exceed the state-set decibel limits per § 387-105(D). 'Unnecessary horn blowing' is illegal under § 387-105(C) — the horn may be used only when 'absolutely necessary' as a warning. Car alarms ('automatic motor vehicle protection devices') must be adjusted to suppress false triggers under § 387-105(E).