The Duma advances a new framework for loud vehicle penalties with regional flexibility
A bill that would set fines for loud cars and motorcycles has moved beyond the first reading in the State Duma, signaling a shift toward letting local authorities determine the exact penalties. Regional governments would gain the authority to tailor punishment amounts for drivers who disturb the peace of residents. Under the proposal, penalties would vary by vehicle category and engine power, with fines proposed from five thousand to thirty thousand rubles. The bill also introduces a streamlined enforcement process and grants authorities the right to impound vehicles whose mufflers have been removed or modified.
The envisioned system rests on automated measurement rather than sole human judgment. Specialized sound level meters would operate alongside cameras to capture visuals or video evidence, creating a consistent and auditable record of violations. This technology driven approach aims to reduce human error in identifying noisy vehicles and to provide a traceable trail of infractions for use in administrative proceedings. Violations would be automatically flagged when sound thresholds are surpassed, triggering the corresponding penalties while maintaining an audit trail for regional authorities.
The explanatory note accompanying the bill highlights that some drivers modify exhaust systems or push up audio levels to achieve maximum noise. Such alterations can infringe on quiet zones and affect public health by increasing noise exposure in communities. The current penalty for a noisy vehicle, which was previously five hundred rubles, is proposed to be replaced with a more robust fine structure designed to reflect its impact on public peace and well being. The proposed range is meant to deter excessive noise while giving regions the flexibility to adapt response to local conditions and enforcement capabilities.
Earlier reporting noted that during a second reading the State Duma discussed the possibility of issuing OSAGO policies for short durations ranging from one day to three months. This adds another layer of regulatory debate around vehicle responsibilities and insurance considerations, illustrating the broader environment in which traffic and safety measures are being shaped. While the current focus is on noise penalties, the ongoing legislative activity shows a broader push toward adaptive governance and responsive policy design aimed at protecting residents health and quality of life.