Parma enforces ORC 4513.221 (defective muffler) and CO 438.19 (excessive vehicle noise) covering loud exhausts, modified mufflers, and revving engines. Parma Police issue citations with fines starting at 150 dollars plus court costs.
Vehicle noise in Parma is prosecuted through two overlapping legal frameworks. Ohio Revised Code 4513.221 requires every motor vehicle to be equipped with a muffler in constant operation that prevents excessive or unusual noise; defective or modified exhaust systems (straight pipes, removed catalytic converters, cutout valves) violate state law. Parma Codified Ordinance 438.19 (excessive vehicle noise) parallels the state statute and gives Parma Police direct authority to cite drivers. Typical enforcement targets include modified sports cars on I-480 exit ramps, motorcycles on Broadview Road and Pearl Road (US-42) corridors, and 'burnout'-type driving in parking lots. Engine revving, tire-squealing, and aftermarket exhaust are the most common complaint types; compression/engine braking by commercial trucks is regulated separately under CO 438 provisions affecting trucks on residential streets. Parma Police routinely deploy on Snow Road and Ridge Road during warm-weather evenings to address cruising and stationary engine noise at fast-food parking lots. Noise readings at property lines are not required for a citation - the officer's observation that noise is 'excessive or unusual' under ORC 4513.221 is sufficient.
CO 438.19 and ORC 4513.221 citations: minor misdemeanor, fines from $150 plus court costs. Repeat or modified-exhaust violations may result in mandatory vehicle inspection or correction order.
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