Loud exhaust tickets are issued when a vehicle's exhaust system produces excessive noise, typically beyond the legal limits set by local noise regulations.
The specific laws regarding vehicle noise and exhaust vary between jurisdictions, so it's important to consult the laws of your specific region for accurate information.
In many places, law enforcement officers have the authority to issue tickets to drivers whose vehicles have modified or defective exhaust systems that produce excessive noise. The criteria for what is considered excessive noise can vary, but it is often based on specific decibel levels measured at a certain distance from the vehicle.
If you are concerned about loud exhaust in your area, you can report it to local law enforcement or the appropriate authorities responsible for traffic enforcement. They can investigate the situation and take appropriate action if they find that a vehicle is in violation of noise regulations.
The exact locations where loud exhaust tickets are enforced can vary. In general, enforcement can occur on public roads and highways, where officers may conduct patrols or set up checkpoints to identify and address vehicles with excessively loud exhaust systems.
Enforcement efforts may be more common in areas where noise complaints are prevalent or in places with stricter noise regulations. Urban areas, residential neighborhoods, and places with high population densities are often areas of focus for noise enforcement due to the potential impact on the quality of life for residents.
Here are a few examples of states with laws related to loud exhaust:
California: The state has specific regulations regarding exhaust noise levels. Vehicles must meet the state's noise standards, which prohibit excessive or unusual noise from the exhaust system. California Vehicle Code Section 27150-27153 addresses exhaust noise regulations. In California, before 2019, police officers issued so-called “fix it” tickets, enabling you to fix your vehicle's exhaust system within 30 days, provide proof, and avoid paying fines. As of 2019, fines are mandatory. In California, the minimum fine for a loud exhaust is $25, but with court fees, it quickly turns into $200. The maximum fine is $1,000.
Massachusetts: In Massachusetts, excessive noise from vehicle exhaust is regulated by Section 7N of Chapter 90 of the Massachusetts General Laws. It states that vehicles should not produce excessive or unusual noise from the exhaust system.
Florida: Florida has noise regulations related to vehicle exhaust. Section 316.271 of the Florida Statutes states that vehicles must have mufflers in good working condition and should not emit excessive or unusual noise.
These are just a few examples, and it's important to note that all states have some form of noise regulations that may apply to vehicle exhaust systems. Here is a more exhaustive list of states that regulate noise.