Shelby, NC Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

Sec. 16-37 of the Shelby Code of Ordinances applies to anyone who operates a motor vehicle in the city, and also to anyone who allows that operation. The second phrase matters for owners. A person who lets someone else drive their vehicle in Shelby in a way that breaks the rule is covered by the same sentence as the driver.

The section sets out separate tests, numbered (1) and (2), joined by the word "or." Meeting either one is enough.

Test (1) is a general standard. It bars engaging in operations which create unreasonably loud and disturbing noises. No distance or decibel figure is attached to it, so the question is whether the noise from operating the vehicle is both unreasonably loud and disturbing.

Test (2) is a measurable one aimed at audio played inside the vehicle. It covers playing any radio, tape player, compact disc player or other sound-making device or instrument from within the motor vehicle so that the sound is plainly audible 30 feet away from the vehicle. The list ends with a catch-all, so the type of device does not matter. The distance is measured from the vehicle, and the standard is plain audibility at that distance.

Shelby's noise ordinance carves out business or political vehicles that use sound equipment in the normal course of business, as long as they stay under 60 dB(A) at the edge of the pavement. A separate provision bans exhaust noise from any vehicle engine unless it passes through a working muffler.