AUSTIN, Texas — The Austin City Council will consider an ordinance today that targets vehicle noises or vibrations considered “loud or disturbing.” This includes excessive revving while a vehicle is moving or stopped and unnecessary acceleration or braking when there is no emergency. It allows officers to cite drivers for vehicle noises over 85 decibels, but only if a person has received an initial warning from an officer. If approved, violators could face fines of up to $500.
This proposal comes as the Austin Police Department says noises and unsafe driving complaints have increased, especially along RM 2222 and Loop 360. APD Commander Craig Smith said officers averaged nearly 20 hours of overtime per month working traffic along RM 2222 during the first ninth months of the year.