ORLANDO, Fla. – If you feel like your house shakes every time a car drives by, you’re not imagining things.
Excessively-loud vehicles are a common complaint across many neighborhoods. The good news is there are laws on the books, and there are steps you can take.
In Florida, vehicle noise is regulated under state law and local ordinances. Florida Statute 316.293 specifically addresses excessive or unusual noise from motor vehicles, including modified or defective exhaust systems.
Basically, if a vehicle is louder than it was designed to be, especially due to aftermarket exhaust modifications... it may be illegal.
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Many cities and counties also enforce local noise ordinances, particularly during nighttime hours. That means repeated loud revving, racing, or booming sound systems can result in warnings or citations.
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If the noise is persistent, start by documenting it. Note dates, times, and descriptions of the vehicle if possible.
If it’s happening in real time and appears intentional, such as street racing or aggressive driving, call your local non-emergency police line. For ongoing issues, you can also contact your city’s code enforcement office.
Avoid confronting drivers yourself. It can escalate quickly and put you at risk.
I get occasional noise happens, but repeated disruptive noise is not something you just have to live with. Report it through the proper channels and let authorities handle it safely.
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