Motor-vehicle noise on public streets is preempted by California Vehicle Code §§27150–27159 (mufflers) and §23130 (vehicle noise limits). California Air Resources Board / CHP enforce a 95 dBA aftermarket-exhaust limit. Tulare's Chapter 6.40 can address parked-vehicle stereos, idling, and off-road vehicles on private property.
Under Veh. Code §21 the Vehicle Code generally preempts local regulation of motor-vehicle equipment and operation on public roads. The operative state rules are: §27150 — every motor vehicle must have an adequate muffler in constant operation and may not be equipped with a cutout, bypass, or similar device; §27151 — modifying an exhaust system to amplify or increase noise above otherwise legal levels is prohibited; §27156 — pollution-control device tampering; §27160 — sound system audible at 50 feet is an infraction; §23130 — vehicle noise on level grade at 50 feet may not exceed specified dBA limits by weight class. Aftermarket exhaust may not exceed 95 dBA under SAE J1169. CHP enforces these on the road. Tulare's Chapter 6.40 reaches non-vehicle aspects: parked-car stereos at 70 dBA-plus on private property (§6.40.071), prolonged idling on residential streets, and off-road vehicles operated on private property in a manner that disturbs neighbors.
On-road exhaust and stereo violations are Vehicle Code infractions cited by CHP, Tulare Police, or county Sheriff. Smog-station referee inspection (BAR Referee) can be ordered to verify exhaust compliance. Stationary-vehicle noise that triggers Chapter 6.40 can be cited locally as an infraction; repeat offenses escalate.
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