Salt Lake City, UT Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Muffler requirement
- Working muffler required at all times
- Noise limit, light vehicles
- 80 dBA, 10,000 lb GVW or less
- Noise limit, heavy vehicles
- 88 dBA for heavier trucks
- Measurement point
- 25 feet from nearest traffic lane
- Default penalty
- Infraction under Title 12
Summary
Salt Lake City requires every motor vehicle to keep a working muffler and bars exhaust modifications that boost engine noise, while capping drive-by sound at 80 to 88 dBA measured 25 feet from the lane.
Every motor vehicle shall at all times be equipped with a muffler in good working order and in constant operation. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no person shall modify the exhaust system of a motor vehicle in a manner which will amplify or increase or change the character of the noise emitted by the motor of such vehicle above that emitted by the muffler originally installed on the vehicle. No person shall sell, furnish, provide or purchase, nor shall any person attach to any vehicle any device which will or is intended to increase or change the character of the sound of the original muffling equipment on any motor vehicle. No person shall operate a motor vehicle with an exhaust system so modified. (Ord. 31-00 § 19, 2000: prior code title 46, art. 9 § 172)
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-21: Code current through: Ord. 40-26, passed June 16, 2026).
Full Breakdown
City Code § 12.28.100 requires every motor vehicle to carry a muffler in good working order at all times and bans modifying, selling, or attaching any device that amplifies or changes the exhaust's original sound. Separately, § 12.88.020 sets hard drive-by noise ceilings, 80 dBA for vehicles rated 10,000 pounds GVW or less, 88 dBA for heavier trucks and towed combinations, measured with a sound level meter 25 feet from the nearest lane on streets posted 40 mph or slower. Pre-1974 vehicles can seek a mayoral exemption if compliance is mechanically impossible.
Violations & Fines
Running a modified or missing muffler, or exceeding the dBA limits, is an infraction under Title 12 unless designated a misdemeanor, enforced by Salt Lake City police with a citation and court-set fine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put an aftermarket exhaust on my car in Salt Lake City?
How loud can a truck legally be on Salt Lake City streets?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Salt Lake City
Compare Salt Lake City to another location·View the Utah noise ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Vehicle Noise in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Salt Lake County handle vehicle noise.