Redmond cracks down on loud vehicles with ‘muffler patrols’

Last weekend, Redmond Police conducted an emphasis “muffler” patrol to stop those with modified mufflers after receiving complaints about the loud noise.

Officers pulled over 15 loud cars and ticketed 7, and Redmond PD says it was a “successful patrol.”

Redmond PD spokesperson Jill Green tells KIRO Newsradio the noise is especially unbearable in downtown.

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“They want to make the cars sound loud, to sound like a racecar,” Green said. “These cars are going up and down the streets in the middle of the night making a lot of noise and disrupting residents.”

When a car passes by with its modified exhaust system, the sound bounces off the buildings and the noise can be startling.

Not only that but it’s illegal to modify an exhaust system in the state of Washington, with hefty fines for anyone looking to make their cars too noisy.

According to Washington state law, the maximum amount of noise a vehicle can make is 72 decibels when moving under 35 miles per hour, and 78 decibels when moving faster.

First offenders will be ticketed for $149, and a second offense is $190. The fine for the third offense is $231. Incessant offenders who are ticketed for six violations in a 12-month period will have their license suspended.

Redmond Chief of Police says more emphasis patrols are coming:

“In response to multiple complaints from community members about the ongoing issue of loud exhaust systems on our streets and in our neighborhoods, we are dedicating resources to educate and cite drivers who violate the law,” said Chief Darrell Lowe.

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