Santa Paula, CA Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Exhaust Limit
- 95 dBA (CVC §27007)
- Truck Noise
- Addressed in SPMC Chapter 93
- Street Vehicles
- Governed by CVC
- Enforcement
- Santa Paula Police / CHP
Summary
Vehicle noise on public streets is governed by CA Vehicle Code §27007 (95 dBA exhaust limit). CVC preempts local ordinances for vehicles on public roads. SPMC Chapter 93 also restricts truck noise.
27150. (a) Every motor vehicle equipped with an internal combustion engine and subject to registration shall at all times be equipped with an adequate muffler in constant operation and properly maintained to prevent any excessive or unusual noise, and no muffler or exhaust system shall be equipped with a cutout, bypass, or similar device.
(b) Except as provided in Division 16.5 (commencing with Section 38000) with respect to off-highway motor vehicles subject to identification, every passenger vehicle operated off the highways shall at all times be equipped with an adequate muffler in constant operation and properly maintained so as to meet the requirements of Article 2.5 (commencing with Section 27200), and no muffler or exhaust system shall be equipped with a cutout, bypass, or similar device.
(c) The provisions of subdivision (b) shall not be applicable to passenger vehicles being operated off the highways in an organized racing or competitive event conducted under the auspices of a recognized sanctioning body or by permit issued by the local governmental authority having jurisdiction, or to vehicles not equipped with an internal combustion engine.
Full Breakdown
Vehicle noise in Santa Paula is regulated by California Vehicle Code Section 27007 (95 dBA modified exhaust limit) and the city noise ordinance. Santa Paula PD enforces vehicle noise on city streets. Modified exhaust systems exceeding state limits receive fix-it tickets. Loud stereos audible beyond 50 feet from the vehicle may be cited. Santa Paula's Main Street and downtown corridor see periodic enforcement of vehicle noise complaints.
Violations & Fines
Modified exhaust exceeding 95 dBA: CVC 27007 fix-it ticket ($25 correctable, $197 if not corrected). Loud stereo audible 50+ feet: $25 to $197. Disturbing the peace via vehicle noise: Penal Code 415 ($250 to $1,000). Exhibition of speed: misdemeanor with potential $1,000 fine and vehicle impound.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are loud exhaust modifications legal in Santa Paula?
Can I report a loud vehicle in Santa Paula?
Are jake brakes restricted in Santa Paula?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Santa Paula
California rules heatmap·Compare Santa Paula to another location·View the California noise ordinances overview
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Vehicle Noise in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Ventura County handle vehicle noise.