MOTOR VEHICLE NOISE ABATEMENT PROGRAM

GOAL

The Noise Abatement Program seeks quiet roads by reducing the impact of vehicle noise from illegal exhaust systems and loud stereos in the Town of Falmouth through voluntary compliance rather than traffic tickets.

VOLUNTARY COMPLIANCE

We ask that if you have a vehicle with an illegal exhaust system or a stereo system capable of serious noise that you don’t draw attention to yourself by creating excessive and/or unreasonable noise. You will reduce the number of noise complaints and avoid a traffic ticket.

MUFFLE THE NOISE

Reduce noise by repairing or replacing non-compliant muffler systems.

SHIFTING TO SILENCE

Shifting to the next highest gear earlier than normal helps reduce the noise associated with high RPMs.

TURN DOWN THE SOUND

Turning down your stereo so that only the occupants of your vehicle can hear it will not disturb the members of the community and still allow you to enjoy your music without receiving a traffic ticket.

THE MUFFLER

A muffler is considered in “good working order” if the internal baffles have not been removed, it prevents excessive/unnecessary noise, it prevents pollution, and is in compliance with state sound emission requirements.

NON-EXISTENT MUFFLER

All motor vehicles and motorcycles require a muffler in “good working order”, otherwise the operator may be fined $50.

ALTERED MUFFLER

A muffler in “good working order” may not be altered in an effort to increase the exhaust system’s noise level. If the baffle plates, screens, or other original parts have been removed the muffler is considered altered. An operator may be fined $50 for an altered muffler.

REPLACEMENT MUFFLER

An original muffler may only be replaced or exchanged with a muffler in “good working order”, otherwise the operator may be fined $50.

LOUD MUSIC

Music that can be heard at a distance of 150 feet or more is considered loud and unnecessary. The operator may be fined $50.

References:

1. M.G.L. Chapter 90: Section 16. Offensive or illegal operation of motor vehicles

2. M.G.L. Chapter 90: Sections 7S, 7T, & 7U. Motorcycle sound emissions

3. Town Code (Town of Falmouth) Chapter 150: Section 150-3

The Falmouth Police Department is committed to the three Es.

EDUCATION

Informational brochures, training, and media coverage of the components of the Noise Abatement Program help reduce the excessive noise via education.

ENGINEERING

Improving the roadways by adding informational signs helps alert the operator of anti-noise laws.

ENFORCEMENT

Finally, if education and engineering does not help reduce excessive noise, then enforcement is necessary. Violations may result in fines and vehicle insurance surcharges.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Falmouth wants bikers and motorists to come to town and have a good time. However, we ask that bikers and motorists respect our residents & visitors and their desire to enjoy a reasonably quiet and peaceful community. Our partners share these thoughts. Therefore, we respectfully ask that bikers and motorists muffle the noise, shift to silence, and/or turn down the sound. As long as you don’t call attention to yourself in that manner, you won’t get a ticket from the Falmouth Police Department.

PARTNERS

This page last updated on Thursday, May 19, 2011

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