Madison MGO 12.76 prohibits unnecessary vehicle noise including loud exhaust, revving, squealing tires, and audible car stereos beyond 50 feet. State vehicle equipment law WI Stat 347.39 also requires functional mufflers.
Madison MGO 12.76 makes it unlawful to operate any motor vehicle in a manner that creates loud and unnecessary noise. This includes modified or defective exhaust systems, jake-brake use on non-highway streets, tire squealing, and amplified sound audible at 50 feet or more. Wisconsin Statute 347.39 requires every vehicle to be equipped with a muffler in good working order to prevent excessive or unusual noise. Madison Police enforce both the city ordinance and state vehicle code. Motorcycles with aftermarket exhausts are a recurring complaint on John Nolen Drive, East Washington Avenue, and the Beltline corridors. Commercial trucks using engine (jake) brakes in residential districts violate posted local restrictions. Drive-by stereo bass violations are frequent in downtown areas.
Exhaust citation: around 175 dollars plus correction order. Stereo audible at 50 ft: about 124 dollars. State muffler violations add court costs.
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