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Sedalia council bans unmuffled engine braking, requires MoDOT sign permits
Summary
The Sedalia City Council passed an ordinance prohibiting unmuffled "jake" braking within city limits while allowing muffled systems; MoDOT approval and permits will be required for signs on state highways.
The Sedalia City Council voted unanimously to adopt an ordinance that outlaws unmuffled engine braking—commonly called "jake braking"—within the city, while allowing muffled or aftermarket-muffled systems.
The measure, enacted as Bill No. 2025-87, was approved on final passage after a second reading with a recorded roll call of seven yes votes. Councilmembers said the ordinance responds to resident complaints about noise on city streets, including Bridal Street.
City staff told the council the measure updates language from a 2001 ordinance that ran through 2016 and incorporates the modified text that the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) has approved. The staff member said MoDOT must approve signs placed on state highways and that the city will need to seek a permit from MoDOT to install any signs.
Council members and two residents who spoke during public comment said the noise from unmuffled engine braking had been a persistent nuisance. Robert Kenner said he supported the ordinance; Jeff Wyman, who identified himself as living at 711 West Bridal, told the council, "we live on Broadway and Grand for the last 8 years, and the noise is off."
Council discussion clarified that the prior local ban (adopted in 2001 and effective through 2016) was broader; the new ordinance carves out an exception for muffled devices while prohibiting those without a muffler installed. The ordinance passed on final reading and the council recorded seven affirmative votes.
