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Committee defers noise ordinance amendment after questions about muffler language and electric vehicles
Summary
Council member Ellis introduced an amendment to section 9.20.020 of the Metropolitan Code to curb excessive motor vehicle noise in residential zones. Members raised concerns that the bill's muffler requirement could unintentionally prohibit electric or other non‑combustion vehicles; the committee voted to defer for one meeting to fix language.
Council member Tasha Ellis presented BL2025-955, an amendment to section 9.20.020 of the Metropolitan Code intended to reduce excessive motor vehicle noise within residential zoning districts.
Ellis said her objective was to "reduce the excessive vehicle noise in our neighborhoods by setting fair, enforceable standards." She added that constituents in her district had asked for relief from loud vehicles.
Council member Evan Siegel questioned whether the bill's language—requiring a muffler in "good working order and in constant operation" for any motor vehicle—would unintentionally prohibit electric vehicles, which generally do not have mufflers. Legal counsel (Director Darby) asked for time to research the interaction between current code and the proposed language. Siegel moved a one‑meeting deferral so the committee could “get this right” and avoid adopting language that would bar whole classes of vehicles from streets.
Ellis said the muffler language already exists in the current code and acknowledged it may need cleanup. After discussion, the committee recommended a one‑meeting deferral, 11 in favor and 1 opposed.
Discussion vs. decision: The record shows a policy intent to curb noise but no final text change; the committee chose to defer so staff and counsel can resolve scope and unintended consequences.
Ending: The sponsor and legal staff will review statutory language to ensure electric and other non‑combustion vehicles are not barred, then return the revised bill to committee.
