Lakewood, NJ Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing sections
- Township Code §§ BH16-3, BH16-5.5, BH16-5.12
- Daytime noise limit
- 60 decibels (7 a.m.-11 p.m.)
- Nighttime noise limit
- 55 decibels (11 p.m.-7 a.m.)
- Penalty range
- $10 to $500 per offense
- Exempt holidays
- 5 dates, e.g. July 4th, Purim
Summary
Lakewood Township's Board of Health noise code, Ocean County, New Jersey, caps street noise at 60 decibels by day and 55 at night, bans exhaust that bypasses a muffler, and separately outlaws driving a vehicle so out of repair it grates, grinds or rattles loudly.
§ BH16-5.5. Exhausts. The discharge of the exhaust of internal combustion engines or motor vehicles except through a muffler or other device designed to prevent loud or explosive noises therefrom. § BH16-5.12. Defect in Vehicle or Load. The use of any automobile, motorcycle, or vehicle so out of repair, so loaded or in such a manner as to create loud and unnecessary grating, grinding or rattling or other excessive noise.
Full Breakdown
, on the "A" weighted scale, with a detailed octave-band table of maximum sound pressure levels by frequency if the A-scale reading is challenged. Two provisions target vehicles specifically. S. prima facie evidence of a violation. e, bans operating any "motorized sportbike, motorcycle, or motorized bicycle" equipped with a muffler cutout or bypass, but that section governs off-road dirt bikes and ATVs on public or private land, not ordinary street traffic. on five listed holidays including July 4th and Purim.
Violations & Fines
Board of Health chapter violations are governed by § BH1-2.2: a penalty of not less than $10 and not more than $500 per offense, prosecuted in Lakewood Township Municipal Court, with each day of a continuing violation a separate offense under § BH1-2.3. Enforcement under § BH16-7 covers State, Ocean County and Township police, special officers, code enforcement officers and health inspectors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Lakewood Township ban loud mufflers?
What is the decibel limit for street noise at night?
Is a loud car stereo a separate violation from a bad muffler?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Lakewood
Compare Lakewood to another location·View the New Jersey noise ordinances overview
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Vehicle Noise in Nearby Cities
How other cities in this county handle vehicle noise.