Arizona § 28-954 - Horns and warning devices
Full text of Arizona Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-954 — Horns and warning devices, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 28-954. Horns and warning devices
A. A motor vehicle when operated on a highway shall be equipped with a horn that is in good working order and that is capable of emitting sound audible under normal conditions from a distance of at least two hundred feet. Any horn or other warning device shall not emit an unreasonably loud or harsh sound or a whistle.
B. If reasonably necessary to ensure the safe operation of a motor vehicle, the driver shall give an audible warning with the driver's horn but shall not otherwise use the horn when on a highway.
C. A vehicle shall not be equipped with and a person shall not use on a vehicle a siren, whistle or bell, except as otherwise permitted in this section.
D. A vehicle may but is not required to be equipped with a theft alarm signal device that is arranged so that it cannot be used by the driver as an ordinary warning signal.
E. An authorized emergency vehicle may be equipped with a siren, whistle or bell that is capable of emitting sound audible under normal conditions from a distance of at least five hundred feet and that is of a type approved by the department. The siren shall not be used except when the vehicle is operated in response to an emergency call or in the immediate pursuit of an actual or suspected violator of the law or when necessary to serve a civil traffic complaint. During these events the driver of the vehicle shall sound the siren when reasonably necessary to warn pedestrians and other drivers of the approach of the emergency vehicle.
F. A siren shall be allowed on a fire engine that is solely used for hobby or display purposes and that has been issued a historic vehicle license plate pursuant to section 28-2484 if either of the following applies:
1. The siren is covered and is not activated while a person is transporting or driving the vehicle to or from a parade, authorized assemblage of historic vehicles or test.
2. The siren is activated only in a parade, for an authorized assemblage of historic vehicles or for testing purposes.
Source: official Arizona text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Arizona § 28-954
What does Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-954 cover?
Section 28-954 ("Horns and warning devices") is part of the Arizona Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Arizona. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Arizona § 28-954?
A common citation format is "Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-954" (Arizona). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Arizona law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Arizona official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Arizona attorney.
How does Arizona § 28-954 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Arizona can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Arizona.