Wayne, NJ Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

The Wayne Township Council placed the vehicle rules in Chapter 121, Noise. Section 121-10 opens by declaring that violations of each paragraph are purposeful and therefore non-minor, which matters for how enforcement works. Paragraph A makes it unlawful to remove or render inoperative any device or element of design built into a motor vehicle for noise control, other than for maintenance, repair or replacement, and bars operating a vehicle modified that way. A vehicle that fails the requirement is in violation whether it is stationary or in motion in any public space or public right-of-way.

Paragraph B requires every motorcycle to have a muffler that complies with and is labeled under the Federal Noise Regulations at 40 CFR Part 205. Paragraphs C and D set the stereo limits: music from personal or commercial vehicular amplification equipment cannot be plainly audible at 25 feet in any direction from the operator between 10:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m., or at 50 feet between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. The Code defines plainly audible as sound an officer can detect with unaided hearing, and says detecting the rhythmic bass component of music from a vehicular sound system is enough.

The officer does not have to identify the title, words or artist. Because no sound level meter is needed, a Noise Control Investigator can write these cases under § 121-5(B). Separately, § 123-4.1 makes it unlawful for any motor vehicle operator to use an engine compression brake at any time on Ryerson Ave, Whitmore Ave, Haul Road, Dorsa Ave, Central Ave, Oldham Road and Preakness Ave, each for its entire length. Public safety vehicles are excluded, and so is any vehicle in an emergency where the operator reasonably believes the brake is necessary to protect persons or property and an alternative braking system cannot avoid the problem. The Township is authorized to post signs, and the Chief of Police or a designee enforces § 123-4.1 under § 123-5.