Guide: Exhaust noise and the Law

[Norledge]

For most passenger vehicles with not more than 9 seats, the noise limit is
80 decibels (see Regulations 54 - 59 of the The Road Vehicles (Construction
and Use) Regulations 1986).

There are a number of exceptions, qualifications and restrictions and I
suggest you take a look at the legislation.

The noise is measured by using a 'sound level meter' of the type described
in Publication No. 179 of the International Electrotechnical Commission, or
a 'sound level meter' complying with the specifications of the British
Standard Number BS 5969:1981 which came into effect on 29th May 1981.

Generally, the offence that a person would be charged with is that of
'using a motor vehicle with an altered exhaust' or 'using a motor vehicle
with an inefficient exhaust/silencer'.

Both offences contravene section 42 of the Road Traffic Act 1988 as they
breach construction and use regulations.

Either offence can be dealt with by way of a £30 fixed penalty ticket or,
if the case went to court, a fine of up to £1,000.