Rio Rancho, NM Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Muffler cutouts/bypasses
- banned on city streets
- Muffler condition
- must be in good working order
- Applies to
- every motor vehicle in the city
- Governing law
- Rio Rancho Traffic Code Art. X
Summary
Rio Rancho requires every motor vehicle to run a working muffler that prevents excessive noise and bans muffler cutouts, bypasses, or similar devices on city streets.
Every motor vehicle shall at all times be equipped with a muffler in good working order and in constant operation to prevent excessive or unusual noise, and no person shall use a muffler cutout, bypass, or similar device upon a motor vehicle on a street in this municipality.
B. The muffler, emission control equipment or device, engine and power mechanism of every motor vehicle shall be so equipped and adjusted as to prevent the escape of excessive fumes or smoke.
C. Every registered gasoline-fueled motor vehicle manufactured or assembled, commencing with the 1968 models, shall at all times be equipped and maintained in good working order with the factory-installed devices and equipment or their replacements designed to prevent, reduce or control exhaust emissions or air pollution. (66-3-844 NMSA 1978)
Full Breakdown
City traffic code requires every motor vehicle to be equipped at all times with a muffler in good working order and constant operation to prevent excessive or unusual noise, and separately bans the use of a muffler cutout, bypass, or similar noise-amplifying device on any street within the city. A related provision requires emission control equipment to be kept in working order to prevent excessive fumes or smoke.
Violations & Fines
Cited as a traffic infraction under the Uniform Traffic Ordinance as adopted; enforceable by Rio Rancho police under Art. X.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an aftermarket loud exhaust legal in Rio Rancho?
Who enforces Rio Rancho's muffler noise rule?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Rio Rancho
Compare Rio Rancho to another location·View the New Mexico noise ordinances overview
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