Redlands, CA Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

Vehicle noise has a split jurisdiction in Redlands. On public streets, California law preempts local decibel rules: California Vehicle Code Section 27150 requires every motor vehicle to have an adequate muffler in constant operation and properly maintained to prevent excessive or unusual noise, and prohibits cutouts or bypasses; Section 27151 bars modifying the exhaust system to amplify or increase noise beyond Section 27150 limits, and sets a 95 dBA SAE-tested standard for vehicles under 6,000 lbs gross vehicle weight rating (other than motorcycles). These state provisions are enforced by peace officers, including the Redlands Police Department. On private property, vehicles and powered equipment used as stationary noise sources fall under the City's own Chapter 8.06: Section 8.06.090.C requires motors, machinery and pumps (for example, swimming pool equipment) to be sufficiently enclosed or muffled and maintained so as not to create a noise disturbance, and the exterior limits of Section 8.06.070 (50 dBA night / 60 dBA day at a residential property line) apply. The City does not set its own on-road vehicle decibel figures. So the distinctive City rule applies to vehicle/engine noise on private property; on-street modified-exhaust and excessive-noise vehicles are a state Vehicle Code matter.