Visalia, CA Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Horn misuse prohibited
- Yes: any use not authorized by California Vehicle Code
- Loud exhaust prohibited
- Yes: exhaust must prevent disturbing or unreasonably loud noise
- Stationary engine revving prohibited
- Yes: except during repair, adjustment, or testing
- Applies to
- All motor vehicles including motorcycles, buses, and trucks
- First offense fine
- $100
Summary
Visalia prohibits three specific forms of vehicle noise: sounding a horn for any purpose not allowed by state law, operating a vehicle with an exhaust system loud enough to be disturbing, and revving a stationary engine (except during repair, adjustment, or testing).
The following types of noises or conduct are declared to be disturbing to the peace, quiet and comfort of the neighborhood in which they are heard, and persons creating such noises are in violation of Section 9.32.030: 1. The sounding of any horn, signal or noise device on any automobile, motorcycle, bus, truck or other vehicle, in any other manner or for any other purpose than allowed by the California Vehicle Code or other laws of the state; 2. The noise from an exhaust system of any vehicle that is not equipped or constructed so as to prevent any disturbing or unreasonably loud noise; 3. The revving of the engine of any motor vehicle while such vehicle is not in motion, except when done in the course of repairing, adjusting or testing it;
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: 2026 S-50: Municipal Code contains Supplement, current through Ordinance 2025-15, passed 12-15-2025).
Full Breakdown
Section 9.32.040(B)(1)-(3) enumerate vehicle-specific noise violations under the city's public disturbance ordinance. Misuse of a horn on any motor vehicle is prohibited unless the Vehicle Code or state law permits it. Operating any vehicle with an exhaust system that fails to prevent disturbing or unreasonably loud noise is independently prohibited, meaning a modified or deteriorating muffler is a violation regardless of the decibel reading. Revving a stationary engine is also prohibited unless the driver is engaged in repairing, adjusting, or testing the vehicle. All three types trigger the same fine schedule as other public disturbances.
Violations & Fines
Administrative citation: $100 first violation; $200 second violation within 12 months; $500 each subsequent violation within 12 months. May alternatively be charged as a criminal misdemeanor or infraction.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get cited for a loud aftermarket exhaust?
Is revving my engine to warm it up in the driveway allowed?
Do these rules apply to motorcycles and diesel trucks as well as cars?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Visalia
California rules heatmap·Compare Visalia to another location·View the California noise ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.