Vehicle noise in unincorporated Franklin County is controlled by ORC 4513.221 which requires every motor vehicle to have a muffler in good working order preventing excessive or unusual noise. Modified exhausts and loud motorcycles are common enforcement targets on SR-315, I-270, and rural county roads.
ORC 4513.221 prohibits muffler cutouts, bypasses, or similar devices. Franklin County Sheriff traffic units enforce the statute alongside Ohio State Highway Patrol. Aftermarket exhausts that exceed factory noise are a primary violation. Diesel pickup truck rolling coal can additionally violate Ohio EPA OAC 3745-15 visible-emissions rules.
ORC 4513.221 is a minor misdemeanor: fine up to 150 dollars. Equipment must be brought into compliance before the vehicle can be legally operated.
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