Santa Rosa County, FL Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- On-road vehicles
- Exempt; F.S. § 316.293 governs
- Horns/warning devices
- Exempt (F.S. § 316.271)
- Private-property vehicles
- Subject to county limits
- State agency
- FL Highway Safety & Motor Vehicles
- Applies to
- Unincorporated county
Summary
Noise from motor vehicles operating on a public right-of-way is exempt from the county ordinance and is governed by Florida law (F.S. § 316.293). Vehicle horns and warning devices required by F.S. § 316.271 are also exempt. Off-road vehicle noise on private property still falls under the county limits.
Noise generated by motor vehicles operating on a public right-of-way subject to F.S.
§ 316.293.
(10) Noise generated within the Galt City Industrial Zone, as more particularly described in Exhibit "A," which is attached to the ordinance from which this article is derived.
(11) Noise generated by a backup emergency power generator during a power outage or declared local state of emergency.
(12) In accordance with the provisions of F.S. § 790.33, this article does not regulate or apply to firearms.
(13) Noise generated by a pool pump or dewatering pump that is in good working order.
(Ord. No. 2021-06 , § 2, 6-22-21)
Full Breakdown
Section 14-172 exempts noise generated by motor vehicles operating on a public right-of-way subject to F.S. § 316.293 (the state motor-vehicle noise statute), and noise from a horn or warning device required or permitted by F.S. § 316.271, provided it complies with Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles rules. Because on-road vehicle and horn noise is preempted to the state, the county does not set its own dB limit for traffic. Vehicles operated on private property (not a public right-of-way) remain subject to the Sec. 14-171(a) receiving-property limits. Cities set their own rules within their limits.
Violations & Fines
On-road vehicle noise is enforced by law enforcement under Florida traffic law, not the county penalty schedule. Non-exempt private-property vehicle noise over the limits draws the $100 noise penalty, escalating for repeats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the county ticket a loud exhaust on the road?
What about a loud vehicle idling on private land?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Santa Rosa County
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Santa Rosa County to another location·View the Florida noise ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.