Alamance County, NC Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

Section 6(b) of the Alamance County noise ordinance enumerates specific acts treated as loud, disturbing and unnecessary noise. Subsection 3, "Use of vehicles," prohibits operating any automobile, motorcycle, dirt bike, go-cart, recreational vehicle or other vehicle that is so out of repair, so loaded, or operated in a manner that creates loud or unnecessary grating, grinding, rattling, or screeching of tires or other noise. Subsection 5, "Exhaust discharge," prohibits discharging the exhaust of any steam engine, stationary internal combustion engine, motor vehicle or recreational vehicle into the open air except through a muffler or other device that effectively prevents loud or explosive noises.

Subsection 1 separately bars sounding a horn, whistle or signal device so as to create an unreasonable, loud or harsh sound, or for an unnecessary period, except as a danger signal or legally required. These provisions apply countywide in the unincorporated area under Section 4; Section 7's exceptions protect normal operation of vehicles equipped with the manufacturer's standard muffler and noise-reducing equipment. The Sheriff's Office administers and enforces the chapter under Section 5, and a resident may file a complaint under Section 8 that triggers an investigation and, where warranted, a citation.