Vehicle Noise Attenuation
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT the Alberta Urban Municipalities Association ask the Province of Alberta to establish provincial standards with respect to noise produced in connection with a vehicle, define what constitutes an objectionable noise, and establish a method of determining or measuring noise, and prohibiting the use or operation of a vehicle that emits noise above an established regulated level.
WHEREAS there are many complaints with regard to noisy vehicles and/or vehicles with modified exhaust systems throughout the province;
WHEREAS municipalities are considering adopting local bylaws to address noise complaints;
WHEREAS the province is responsible for establishing guidelines for controlling operational noise levels of many consumer products, equipment and vehicles; and
WHEREAS in a report a CBC Marketplace titled "Noise Regulations in Canada" dated November 7, 2001(as attached) indicates that in other municipalities and countries measures have been taken to try to establish acceptable community noise levels.
Mar 12, 2012 - Alberta Transportation
Alberta’s Traffics Safety Act and supporting regulations contain effective and easily enforced legislation addressing the issue of motor vehicle noise emissions. Alberta’s Vehicle Equipment Regulation requires a motor vehicle, propelled by an internal combustion engine, to have an exhaust muffler system that expels engine exhaust without excessive noise. Further, the Use of Highway and Rules of the Road Regulation prohibits a motor vehicle from making any loud and unnecessary noise, as well as prohibiting a person driving a motor vehicle between the house of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. in a manner that unduly disturbs residents.
Municipalities are empowered by the Traffic Safety Act to create bylaws in regard to vehicle noise. For example, the City of Edmonton has adopted the SAE J2825 to address motorcycle noise. Municipalities have authority, under the Traffic Safety Act, to create bylaws that address motor vehicle noise. For this reason, the government is not pursuing further action regarding noise attenuation.
AUMA rejects this response.