FLORENCE, Ala. (WHNT) — The City of Florence now has an updated noise ordinance for vehicles.
The original noise ordinance, which has been in effect for several years, allowed police officers to issue citations based on their ability to hear sound from a specific distance. For example, if music from a vehicle could be heard from five feet or more away, it constituted a violation.
In October 2023, the ordinance was revised to require police officers to use a decibel reader to measure sound levels, replacing the previous distance-based standard.
According to Florence Police, the 2023 revision did not initially include vehicles. At the October 7, 2025 City Council meeting, the ordinance was revised again to specifically include vehicles, as FPD was receiving a significant number of noise complaints related to loud music coming from vehicles.
The updated ordinance restricts vehicle noise to a maximum of 60 decibels measured from six feet away, with penalties for violations.
The ordinance also has specific exemptions for activities like emergency vehicles, live radio broadcasts, and certain public events.
The following violations are all prohibited under the new ordinance:
- Emitting noise that crosses a property line and enters onto other public or private premises.
- Sounding a car horn or other signaling device on a street or public place.
- Operating a radio, stereo, or other sound-producing device so loudly that it is plainly audible from 50 feet away.
- Operating any engine, motorboat, or vehicle in a way that makes a loud noise and disturbs the peace.
There are a few exemptions to the ordinance in certain cases such as:
- Special performances by a band or orchestra.
- Routine, short-lived broadcasts.
- Sounds from emergency vehicles.
- Live remote broadcasts by duly licensed radio stations during daylight hours.
- Public programs, activities, or events authorized by the city.
If a vehicle’s noise exceeds 60 decibels when measured from six feet away, violators can be fined up to $331.
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