Piscataway, NJ Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

Section 3-2.2, subsection a, lists a vehicle radio among the sound-producing devices that create unlawful noise when played louder than necessary for a voluntary listener or in a way that disturbs neighboring inhabitants; the Code sets a bright-line test, audibility at 100 feet from the vehicle, as prima facie evidence of a violation. Subsection f addresses exhaust: no person may discharge the exhaust of a motor vehicle, stationary internal combustion engine or steam engine into the open air except through a muffler or other device that effectively prevents loud or explosive noises.

Subsection g separately bars operating a vehicle so out of repair, or so loaded, that it creates loud grating, grinding or rattling noise. These enumerated violations sit alongside the numeric decibel ceilings the Township added at § 3-2.6 in December 2025 (65 dB outdoors by day at a residential line, 50 dB at night), so a loud stereo or a cut-out muffler can be cited either as an enumerated unlawful noise under § 3-2.2 or measured against the Table I/II standard, whichever the responding Police Officer applies.

A separate provision at § 3-15.5 requires any motor-driven vehicle operated on municipal land, including minibikes and go-carts, to carry a working muffler and bars any muffler cut-out or bypass device on those vehicles.