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Loud and Unclear
SEMA Action Network Posts Compilation of Exhaust Noise Laws By State
Now that most state legislatures have adjourned for 2013 and our Action Alerts requiring your attention have subsided until January, we invite you to continue visiting the SEMA Action Network’s (SAN) website at semaSAN.com to take advantage of the additional features available to you. Using the website, you can learn how to title and register hobby cars in each state, meet emissions standards and fight unfair inoperable vehicle storage rules at the local level.
The SAN has now added to its resource arsenal a compilation of exhaust noise laws by state. This new tool includes a map to illustrate the states that have adopted measurable exhaust noise limits, the states that prohibit “excessive or unusual noise,” and the states that ban all modifications that lead to noise increases above the levels created by the factory-installed exhaust system. Below the map is a detailed list of exhaust noise statutes organized alphabetically by state. All can be found at semaSAN.com/Noise.
The SAN opposes vague laws prohibiting “excessive or unusual noise,” which allow law enforcement officers to subjectively cite any exhaust system deemed “too loud.” These provisions fail to provide a clear and objective standard for those seeking more durable exhaust systems that enhance a vehicle’s appearance and increase performance by making vehicles run more efficiently without increasing emissions. Three states, including California, have enacted SEMA-model legislation to provide enthusiasts and law enforcement officials with a fair and enforceable alternative. The model legislation establishes a 95-decibel exhaust noise limit based on an objective test standard. The SEMA model bill for exhaust noise can be found on the SAN website by selecting the “Model Bills” option from the “Legislation” drop down menu at the top of the website.