Upland, CA Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

Upland addresses vehicle noise in several parts of Section 9.40.100. Under subsection (F), it is unlawful to operate any motor-driven vehicle in the city that, due to the nature of its operation, its operating condition, or any modification made to it, generates noise so that a reasonable person is caused discomfort or annoyance; the code's definitions sweep in automobiles, trucks, vans, buses, motorcycles, minibikes, and go-carts, on or off road. Subsection (G) regulates horns and signaling devices: it is unlawful to sound a horn except as a danger warning, to create an unreasonably loud or harsh sound, or to sound a device for an unnecessary and unreasonable period; only hand- or electricity-operated signals are allowed, and exhaust-operated horns or whistles are prohibited. Subsection (K) makes it unlawful to discharge the exhaust of any engine or motor-driven vehicle into the open air except through a muffler or other device that effectively prevents loud or explosive noises. These city rules sit alongside California Vehicle Code requirements that every motor vehicle be equipped with an adequate muffler and that exhaust systems not be modified to amplify noise (Veh. Code Sections 27150 and 27151), which are enforced statewide and primarily by law enforcement on public roads. Because Upland is incorporated, the city's provisions apply within city limits in addition to state law, rather than San Bernardino County's vehicle-noise rules for unincorporated areas.