Bristol, PA Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

Section 15-305 of the Bristol Borough Code bans engine brake retarders on these highways and roadways within Bristol Borough: Green Lane, Farragut Avenue, Pond Street, Old Route 13, Radcliffe Street, Jefferson Avenue, Beaver Street, Green Street and Otter Street. Subsection 2 extends the prohibition to vehicles on a state highway or roadway within the Borough, as listed above, upon written approval of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. The Borough must erect signs at appropriate locations indicating that Jake Brakes are prohibited. Government vehicles and other emergency vehicles operating under emergency conditions are exempt.

The penalty is tied to the state Vehicle Code: a violator is guilty of violating § 3111 of the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code and, on summary conviction, faces a minimum fine of not less than $100 and a maximum of not more than $1,000, plus costs of prosecution. For repeat conduct, the Borough can also bring an action for injunctive relief to prohibit or abate the activity when repeated violations by the same person, persons or companies recur.

Vehicle noise is also reached by Chapter 10, Part 5. Section 10-502 makes it unlawful for any person at any time to use a horn or other warning device other than as a reasonable warning, or to make any unnecessary, unreasonable, loud or harsh sound with one. It also prohibits running or idling the engine of a parked truck within 300 feet of a residential zone or district between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. The playing rule in subsection 1.B covers any radio, phonograph, tape or disc player, and § 10-503 lists no exception for vehicle sound systems; it exempts only Borough vehicles on necessary public business, emergency responses, parades, school sports events, noncommercial public addresses and permitted fireworks. A hardship permit is available from the Borough Manager under § 10-504.