Branford Police Offer Free Noise Inspection for Motorcycle Owners
Members of the Branford Police Department’s Traffic Squad will assist any motorcycle owner who wishes to have their exhaust and muffler system’s noise measured on Saturday, May 15 from 12 to 3 p.m. at the I-95, Exit 53 commuter lot.
The one-time inspection is free and is in response to many requests from motorcycle owners who have been notified of upcoming noise enforcement action by the police. Violations for illegal muffler systems and excessive noise could potentially cost a motorcycle operator up to $500 if ticketed.
The initiative to reduce unnecessary noise is part of the department’s continual effort to respond to numerous citizen complaints and concerns about motorcycle noise and to improve Branford’s quality of life.
“The motorcycle noise initiative, which will continue all summer, is an effort to reduce the illegal noise which is generated by some motorcycles,” Chief John DeCarlo said. “The one-time free inspection gives an opportunity to those who wish to comply with the law meet with our officers and have a free noise measurement taken without the fear of enforcement action that day.”
The maximum allowable levels for motorcycles is between 78 dB(A) and 80 dB(A) depending on year and measuring conditions. In addition, all exhaust systems in Connecticut require mechanical baffling of the exhaust to reduce noise.
DeCarlo concluded, “We don’t want to be punitive to motorcycle operators, we just want owners and operators to comply with the existing noise limits defined by Connecticut state law.”
Branford Police Department Press Release
