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.citizeD$ for a Quieter Northfield:" Helping to reduce noise pollution in Northfield, Minnesota
Title: Citizens for a Quieter Northfield. Helping to reduce noise pollution in Northfield, Minnesota.
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Citizens for a Quieter Northfield
Helping to create a civil and enjoyable environment in Northfield,
Minnesota, by reducing noise pollution.
Page last updated: 2006/10/14 @ 14:03:16
noise noun:
la. Sound or a sound that is loud, unpleasant, unexpected, or undesired. [2]
Table of Contents
. About Citizens for a Quieter Northfield
o Core Values
o Our Founders
. Why Citizens for a Quieter Northfield?
. Resources
o Relevant Northfield Ordinances
o Relevant Minnesota Noise Rules/Statutes
o Facts
o Documents
o Links to Other Sites
. Subscribe to the Mailing List
About Citizens for a Quieter N orthfield
Citizens for a Quieter Northfield is a grassroots organization comprised of local citizens dedicated to reducing
noise pollution and raising awareness about the negative health effects of noise pollution in the City of North field,
Minnesota. Citizens for a Quieter Northfield promotes the right to quiet, and hosts a "virtual open table" where
concerned Northfield residents can discuss noise issues, and provide a wide variety of information and resources
about reducing noise pollution. Our ultimate goal is to enlighten the Northfield City Council by fostering and
delivering ideas and plans, so that the City ofNorthfield may adopt new laws, in addition to improved
enforcement of existing laws.
Core ValDes:
. To work for reduction of noise through better regulation and enforcement
. To raise awareness in Northfield regarding noise pollution
. To work toward the reduction of extraneous noise by encouraging responsible behavior
. To foster recognition of the Right to Quiet as a basic human right
. To educate our government officials and legislators of the problems posed to public health by excessive and
uncontrolled noise sources
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.Citize~ for a Quieter Northfield - Helping to reduce noise pollution in Northfield, Minnesota
Oor Foonders:
Page 2 of7
As it turns out, a few folks had launched similar campaigns around the exact same time. We have joined forces,
and combined efforts in order to forge Citizens for a Quieter Northfield. The organization is comprised of three
key people;
. Robert and Barbara Bonner
o Barbara and Robert are the fme folks who organized and facilitated our first public meeting. Barbara
and Robert founded the organization.
. Chip Cuccio
o Chip initially setup the website and mailing list, and is the webmaster of Quietnorthfield.org. Along
with Robert and Barbara, Chip is one of the organization's co-founders.
Up to Contents ^
Why Citizens for a Quieter N orthfield?
Some may not notice the noise pollution in Northfield. Or it simply may not be a nuisance to others. The fact of
the matter is, many do notice it, and many are distressed by noise pollution.
The mission of Citizens for a Quieter Northfield is simple: To create a civil and enjoyable environment for
Northfield residents by reducing the pollutants caused by unnecessary noise.
The issue is, that Northfield Minnesota does indeed, have noise pollution problems. Citizens for a Quieter
Northfield would like to help rectify these noise problems by placing our core values into action.
It is obvious that noise cannot be completely eliminated. It's a part of life. The trains we are forced to hear are
delivering goods - the lawn mowers we are subjected to keep the area beautiful - the planes we hear so loudly
allow us to visit distant relatives and perform distant business functions. But there are sources of noise which do
not offer anyone, any value nor enjoyment. These are the types of noise sources that need to be addressed.
As cited from the Noise Pollution Clearinghouse:
The air into which second-hand noise is emitted and on which it travels is a "commons, " a public
good. It belongs to no one person or group, but to everyone. Polluting the commons is not a right.
Our effort to reduce noise pollution is similar to other efforts to reduce pollution and reassert our
collective stewardship over the commons. Whether the issue is second-hand smoke, elevated mercury
levels, or ground level ozone, the strategy is to protect the environment and our health and well-being
by creating an ethic of the commons. People, businesses, and organizations, therefore, do not have
unlimited rights to broadcast noise as they please, as if the effects of noise were limited only to their
private property. On the contrary, they have an obligation to use the commons in ways that are
compatible with or do not detract from other uses.
We have organized to raise awareness of noise pollution and help Northfield take the commons back from
polluters.
Up to Contents ^
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CitizellS for a Quieter Northfield - Helping to reduce noise pollution in Northfield, Minnesota
Resources
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Forthcoming are a few resources that you may fmd valuable, educational, and quite enlightening;
Relevant Northfield Ordinances:
Sec. 50-87. Noisy parties or assemblies.
a. Any person who participates in any party or assembly of two or more people from which noise emanates of
a sufficient volume or of sufficient nature to disturb the peace, quiet or repose of another person is guilty of
a misdemeanor. Any owner or tenant of the place at which a disturbance is occurring, who has knowledge of
the disturbance and fails to immediately abate the disturbance, is guilty of a misdemeanor.
b. A police officer may order all persons present at a noisy party or assembly prohibited in subsection (a) of
this section, other than the owners or tenants of the place at which the disturbance is occurring, to
immediately disburse. Any person who shall refuse to leave after being so ordered to do so by a police
officer shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
(Code 1986, SS 970:00,970:05)
Sec. 34-1027. Noise.
a. It shall be unlawful to make, continue or cause to be made or continued any noise in excess of the noise
levels set forth in this section unless such noise is reasonably necessary to the preservation of life, health,
safety or property.
b. Any activity not expressly exempted by this section which creates or produces sound, regardless of
frequency, exceeding the ambient noise levels at the property line of any property or if a condominium or
apartment house within any adjoining apartment by more than six decibels above the ambient noise levels as
designated in the following table at the time and place and for the duration then mentioned shall be deemed
to be a violation of the section, but any enumeration in this subsection shall not be deemed to be exclusive:
TABLE INSET:
6:00 p.m.-l0:00 p.m. 7:00 a.m.-6:00 6:00 p.m.-7:00 a.m. 10:00 p.m.-7:00 a.m.
(residential districts) and p.m. (all districts) (all other districts) (residential districts)
Duration of Sound
Less than 10 minutes 75 db 70 db 60 db
Between 10 minutes and 2 hours 70 db 60 db 50 db
In excess of 2 hours 60 db 50 db 40 db
c. In determining whether a particular sound exceeds the maximum permissible sound level in the table in
subsection (b) of this section:
1. Sounds in excess of the residential district limitations as measured in a residential district are violative
of this section whether the sound originates in a residential district or any other district.
2. During all hours of Sundays and state and federal holidays, the maximum allowable decibel levels for
residential districts are as set forth in column III of the table.
d. Sounds emanating from the operation of (i) motor vehicles on a public highway; (i) aircraft; (iii) outdoor
implements such as power lawn mowers, snow blowers, power hedge clippers, and power saws; and (iv)
pile drivers or jackhammers and other construction equipment are exempt from this section. Sounds
emanating from lawful and proper activities at school grounds, playgrounds, parks or places wherein athletic
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contests take place are exempt from this section.
Page 4 of7
(Ord No. 787, 6-2-2003)
Note: Formerly ~ 34-1019.
Sec. 22-1. Declaration of city environmental policy.
a. The city council, recognizing the impact of human activity on all components of the natural environment,
particularly the profound influences of population growth, urbanization, industrial expansion and resource
utilization, and recognizing further the importance of maintaining and improving the city's environmental
quality for the overall welfare of the citizens of the city, does declare that it is the continuing policy of the
city government, in cooperation with state, county and township governments and with concerned public
and private organizations, to use all practicable means and measures to create and maintain conditions under
which people and nature can exist in productive harmony.
b. The city recognizes that each person has a right to a healthful environment and that each person has a
responsibility to contribute to the preservation and enhancement of the environment.
c. In order to carry out the policy set forth in this section, it is the continuing responsibility of the city
government to use all practicable means, consistent with other essential city policies, to improve and
coordinate city plans, functions, programs, and resources in order that the city shall:
I. Encourage the use and stimulation of natural biological, chemical, and geological systems to achieve
human ends.
2. Encourage the protection and maintenance of natural habitats and scenic areas.
3. Minimize wetland drainage and filling and stream channelization.
4. Acquire adequate neighborhood and community parkland acreage, satisfying a variety of passive and
active recreational needs.
5. Practice energy conservation and promote the use of energy efficient systems and designs.
6. Provide for the convenience of pedestrian, bicycle, and other nonmotorized travel.
7. Minimize the use of chemicals and other substances which have potentially hazardous environmental
effects.
8. Minimize production of environmentally deleterious gaseous liquid and solid wastes.
9. Encourage recycling of discarded materials, and purchase recycled goods when available and when
prices are not substantially higher than those of virgin goods of similar quality.
10. Control soil erosion during any land disturbing activity, including but not limited to tilling, clearing,
grading, excavation, transporting and filling of land.
11. Minimize the permanent covering of soil with impervious substances.
12. Control and direct those activities that would subject the citizens of the city to unacceptable noise
levels, litter or water or air pollutants.
13. Discourage visual pollution.
14. Control shore land development and construction in floodplains.
15. Protect the quality and quantity of groundwaters and surface waters.
16. Plan for orderly growth for the benefit of the citizenry.
(Code 1986, S 245:00)
Relevant Minnesota Noise Statutes:
(All citedfrom the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency; Minnesota Rules Chapter 7030 and Minnesota Statutes
of TRAFFIC REGULATIONS. Chapter 169)
169.693 Motor vehicle noise limits.
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It is unlawful to operate a motor vehicle in violation of motor vehicle noise rules adopted by the
Pollution Control Agency.
Section 1010 PROHIBITIONS.
Subpart 1. Operation of vehicle. No person shall operate either a motor vehicle or combination of
vehicles of a type subject to registration pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, chapter 168 at any time or
under any condition of grade, load, acceleration, or deceleration in such a manner as to exceed the
noise limits contained herein for the category of motor vehicle and speed limits specified, when tested
with a measurement procedure approved by the commissioner.
Subp. 2. Sale of vehicle. No person shall sell or offer for sale a new motor vehicle or combination of
vehicles of a type subject to registration pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, chapter 168 which when
maintained according to the manufacturer's specifications would exceed the noise limits contained
herein for the category of motor vehicle and speed limits specified, when tested with a measurement
procedure approved by the commissioner.
Subp. 3. Modification of vehicle. No person shall modify a motor vehicle or combination of vehicles
of a type subject to registration pursuant to Minnesota Statutes, chapter 168 in a manner which will
amplify or increase the noise emitted by the vehicle, above the noise limits contained herein for the
category of motor vehicle and speed limits specified, when tested with a measurement procedure
approved by the commissioner. No person shall operate a motor vehicle so modified.
Subp. 4. Sale of parts. No person shall sell or offer for sale replacement or additional parts for a
motor vehicle or combination of vehicles of a type subject to registration pursuant to Minnesota
Statutes, chapter 168 which when installed in the vehicle will amplify or increase the noise emitted by
the vehicle, above the noise limits contained herein for the category of motor vehicle and speed limits
specified, when tested with a measurement procedure approved by the commissioner. No person shall
operate a motor vehicle incorporating such parts.
7030.1030 EXCEPTIONS.
Vehicles under parts 7030.1050 and 7030.1060 are allowed to exceed the noise limits contained
herein when performing acceleration maneuvers for safety purposes.
7030.1040 NOISE LIMIT FOR VEmCLES OVER 10.000 POUNDS.
Motor vehicle noise limits for vehicles with a manufacturer's gross vehicle weight rating of more than
10,000 pounds and any combination of vehicles towed by such motor vehicle.
A. Speed limits greater than 35 mph.
B. Speed limits equal to or less than 35 mph and stationary run-up tests (for vehicles with governed engines).
For stationary run-up tests on all-paved surfaces, add 2 dBA.
C. Speed limits equal to or less than 35 mph and stationary run-up tests (for vehicles with governed engines),
for vehicles manufactured on or after January I, 1978. For stationary run-up tests on all-paved surfaces, add
2dBA.
D. Speed limits equal to or less than 35 mph and stationary run-up tests (for vehicles with governed engines),
for vehicles manufactured on or after January I, 1982. For stationary run-up tests on all-paved surfaces, add
2dBA.
7030.1050 MOTOR VEmCLE NOISE LIMITS FOR MOTORCYCLES.
A. F or vehicles manufactured before January I, 1975.
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B. Speed limits greater than 35 mph for vehicles manufactured on or after January I, 1975
C. Speed limits equal to or less than 35 mph for vehicles manufactured on or after January I, 1975
7030.1060 NOISE LIMITS FOR OTHER VEHICLES.
Motor vehicle noise limits for any other motor vehicle not included under parts 7030.1040 and
7030.1050 and any combination of vehicles towed by such motor vehicle.
Facts:
. The word "noise" is derived from the Latin word "nausea," meaning seasickness. Noise is among the most
pervasive pollutants today.
. Noise negatively affects human health and well-being. Problems related to noise include hearing loss, stress,
high blood pressure, sleep loss, distraction and lost productivity, and a general reduction in the quality of
life and opportunities for tranquility.
. In the last 15 years, noise levels have risen six-fold in major US cities. The Census Bureau reports that noise
is Americans' top complaint about their neighborhoods, and the major reason for wanting to move.
Docoments:
. A Guide to Noise Control in Minnesota D
Links to Other Sites:
. Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA):
o <http://www.pca.state.mn.us/programs/noise.html>
. American Motorcyclist Association's Position on Excessive Motorcycle Noise:
o <http://www.amadirectlink.com/legisltn/positions/noise.asp>
. "Loud pipes risk rights" (by Ed Youngblood):
o <http://www .ama-cycle.orglmagazine/1999/story I fe.html>
. Lower the Boom!
o <http://www.lowertheboom.org>
. Noise Pollution Clearinghouse:
o <http://www.nonoise.org>
. Noise Free America:
o <http://www.noisefree.org>
. NoiseLaw.org:
o <http://www.noiselaw.org>
. NoiseOFF: The Citizens Coalition Against Noise Pollution:
o <http://www.noiseoff.com>
NOTE: Please consider joining the NoiseOFF Yahoo! Group
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Subscribe to the QuietNorthfield.org mailing list:
E-Mail Address:
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Footnotes:
1. About the picture in the banner: The picture displayed in the top banner is a bridge crossing the Cannon River, located
within the Cannon River Wilderness Area. The image is Copyrighted ~ 2004 by Chip Cuccio.
2. As defined by the American Heritage Dictionary @ of the English Language; Fourth Edition.
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169.69, Minnesota Statutes 2006
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House I Senate I Joint Departments and Commissions I Bill Search and Status I Statutes, Laws, and Rules
Minnesota Statutes Table of Chapters Chapter 169 Table of Contents
Legislature Home I Links to the World I Help I Advanced Search
169.69, Minnesota Statutes 2006
Copyright @ 2006 by the Office of Revisor of Statutes, State of Minnesota.
169.69 MUFFLER.
Every motor vehicle shall at all times be equipped with a muftler in good working order
which blends the exhaust noise into the overall vehicle noise and is in constant operation to
prevent excessive or unusual noise, and no person shall use a muffler cutout, bypass, or similar
device upon a motor vehicle on a street or highway. The exhaust system shall not emit or produce
a sharp popping or crackling sound. Every motor vehicle shall at all times be equipped with such
parts and equipment so arranged and kept in such state of repair as to prevent carbon monoxide
gas from entering the interior of the vehicle.
No person shall have for sale, sell or offer for sale or use on any motor vehicle any muffler
that fails to comply with the specifications as required by the commissioner of public safety.
History: (2720-258) 1937 c 464 s J08; 1939 c 430 s 20; 1953 c 306 s 1; 1971 c 491 s 25
Please direct all comments concerning issues or legislation
to your House Member or State Senator.
For Legislative Staff or for directions to the Capitol, visit the Contact Us page.
General questions or comments.
http://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/binlgetpub.php?pubtype=STAT_CHAP _ SEC&year=2006§ion=16... 2/4/2007
169.69, Minnesota Statutes 2006
Page I of I
. ~Gta
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House I Senate I Joint Departments and Commissions I Bill Search and Status I Statutes, Laws, and Rules
Minnesota Statutes Table of Chapters Chapter 169 Table of Contents
Legislature Home I Links to the World I Help I Advanced Search
169.69, Minnesota Statutes 2006
Copyright @ 2006 by the Office of Revisor of Statutes, State of Minnesota.
169.69 MUFFLER.
Every motor vehicle shall at all times be equipped with a muffler in good working order
which blends the exhaust noise into the overall vehicle noise and is in constant operation to
prevent excessive or unusual noise, and no person shall use a muffler cutout, bypass, or similar
device upon a motor vehicle on a street or highway. The exhaust system shall not emit or produce
a sharp popping or crackling sound. Every motor vehicle shall at all times be equipped with such
parts and equipment so arranged and kept in such state of repair as to prevent carbon monoxide
gas from entering the interior of the vehicle.
No person shall have for sale, sell or offer for sale or use on any motor vehicle any muffler
that fails to comply with the specifications as required by the commissioner of public safety.
History: (2720-258) 1937 c 464 s 108; 1939 c 430 s 20; 1953 c 306 s 1; 1971 c 491 s 25
Please direct all comments concerning issues or legislation
to your House Member or State Senator.
For Legislative Staff or for directions to the Capitol, visit the Contact Us page.
Gen~ral gy~stions or comm~l'lts_.
http://www.revisor.1eg.state.mn.us/bin/getpub.php?pubtype=ST A T _CHAP _ SEC&year=2006§ion=16... 2/4/2007
169.69, Minnesota Statutes 2006
Page I of I
t. ..... ..
~~'*..........
House I Senate I Joint Departments and Commissions I Bill Search and Status I Statutes, Laws, and Rules
Minnesota Statutes Table of Chapters Chapter 169 Table of Contents
Legislature Home I Links to the World I Help I Advanced Search
169.69, Minnesota Statutes 2006
Copyright@2006 by the Office of Revisor of Statutes, State of Minnesota.
169.69 MUFFLER.
Every motor vehicle shall at all times be equipped with a muffler in good working order
which blends the exhaust noise into the overall vehicle noise and is in constant operation to
prevent excessive or unusual noise, and no person shall use a muffler cutout, bypass, or similar
device upon a motor vehicle on a street or highway. The exhaust system shall not emit or produce
a sharp popping or crackling sound. Every motor vehicle shall at all times be equipped with such
parts and equipment so arranged and kept in such state of repair as to prevent carbon monoxide
gas from entering the interior of the vehicle.
No person shall have for sale, sell or offer for sale or use on any motor vehicle any muffler
that fails to comply with the specifications as required by the commissioner of public safety.
History: (2720-258) 1937 c 464 s 108; 1939 c 430 s 20; 1953 c 306 s 1; 1971 c 491 s 25
Please direct all comments concerning issues or legislation
to your House Member or State Senator.
For Legislative Staff or for directions to the Capitol, visit the Contact Us page.
General questions or comments.
http://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/getpub.php?pubtype=STAT_CHAP _ SEC&year=2006§ion=16... 2/4/2007
169.69, Minnesota Statutes 2006
Page I of I
.~eta
~,.,........,....
House I Senate I Joint Departments and Commissions I Bill Search and Status I Statutes, Laws, and Rules
Minnesota Statutes Table of Chapters Chapter 169 Table of Contents
Legislature Home I Links to the World I Help I Advanced Search
169.69, Minnesota Statutes 2006
Copyright @ 2006 by the Office of Revisor of Statutes, State of Minnesota.
169.69 MUFFLER.
Every motor vehicle shall at all times be equipped with a muffler in good working order
which blends the exhaust noise into the overall vehicle noise and is in constant operation to
prevent excessive or unusual noise, and no person shall use a muffler cutout, bypass, or similar
device upon a motor vehicle on a street or highway. The exhaust system shall not emit or produce
a sharp popping or crackling sound. Every motor vehicle shall at all times be equipped with such
parts and equipment so arranged and kept in such state of repair as to prevent carbon monoxide
gas from entering the interior of the vehicle.
No person shall have for sale, sell or offer for sale or use on any motor vehicle any muffler
that fails to comply with the specifications as required by the commissioner of public safety.
History: (2720-258) 1937 c 464 s 108; 1939 c 430 s 20; 1953 c 306 s 1; 1971 c 491 s 25
Please direct all comments concerning issues or legislation
to your House Member or State Senator.
For Legislative Staff or for directions to the Capitol, visit the Contact Us page.
General questions or comments.
http://www.revisor.1eg.state.mn.us/bin/getpub.php?pubtype=STAT_CHAP _ SEC&year=2006§ion=16... 2/4/2007
169.693, Minnesota Statutes 2006
Page I of I
.. '.......
~-.*.......--
House I Senate I Joint Departments and Commissions I Bill Search and Status I Statutes, Laws, and Rules
Minnesota Statutes Table of Chapters Chapter 169 Table of Contents
Legislature Home I Links to the World I Help I Advanced Search
169.693, Minnesota Statutes 2006
Copyright @ 2006 by the Office of Revisor of Statutes, State of Minnesota.
169.693 MOTOR VEIDCLE NOISE LIMITS.
It is unlawful to operate a motor vehicle in violation of motor vehicle noise rules adopted
by the Pollution Control Agency.
History: 1974 c 500 s 1; 1985 c 248 s 70
Please direct all comments concerning issues or legislation
to your HOJ.l$e MembeJ or Stc1teSenatQr.
For Legislative Staff or for directions to the Capitol, visit the Contact Us page.
General questions or comments.
http://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/getpub.php?type=s&num=169 .693&year=2006
2/4/2007
169.974, Minnesota Statutes 2006
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House I Senate I Joint Departments and Commissions I Bill Search and Status I Statutes, Laws, and Rules
Minnesota Statutes Table of Chapters Chapter 169 Table of Contents
Page I of3
Legislature Home I Links to the World I Help I Advanced Search
169.974, Minnesota Statutes 2006
Copyright @ 2006 by the Office of Revisor of Statutes, State of Minnesota.
169.974 MOTORCYCLE, MOTOR SCOOTER, MOTOR BIKE.
Subdivision I. Def'mition. Motorcycles as used herein shall mean the vehicles defined in
section 169.01, subdivision 4.
Subd. 2. License endorsement and permit requirements. (a) No person shall operate a
motorcycle on any street or highway without having a valid standard driver's license with a
two-wheeled vehicle endorsement as provided by law. The commissioner of public safety shall
issue a two-wheeled vehicle endorsement only if the applicant (1) has in possession a valid
two-wheeled vehicle instruction permit as provided in paragraph (b), (2) has passed a written
examination and road test administered by the Department of Public Safety for the endorsement,
and (3) in the case of applicants under 18 years of age, presents a certificate or other evidence of
having successfully completed an approved two-wheeled vehicle driver's safety course in this or
another state, in accordance with rules adopted by the commissioner of public safety for courses
offered by a public, private, or commercial school or institute. The commissioner of public
safety may waive the road test for any applicant on determining that the applicant possesses a
valid license to operate a two-wheeled vehicle issued by a jurisdiction that requires a comparable
road test for license issuance.
(b) The commissioner of public safety shall issue a two-wheeled vehicle instruction permit
to any person over 16 years of age who (I) is in possession of a valid driver's license, (2) is
enrolled in an approved two-wheeled vehicle driver's safety course, and (3) has passed a written
examination for the permit and paid a fee prescribed by the commissioner of public safety. A
two-wheeled vehicle instruction permit is effective for one year and may be renewed under rules
prescribed by the commissioner of public safety.
(c) No person who is operating by virtue of a two-wheeled vehicle instruction permit shall:
(I) carry any passengers on the streets and highways of this state on the motorcycle while the
person is operating the motorcycle;
(2) drive the motorcycle at night;
(3) drive the motorcycle on any highway marked as an interstate highway pursuant to title 23
of the United States Code; or
(4) drive the motorcycle without wearing protective headgear that complies with standards
established by the commissioner of public safety.
(d) Notwithstanding paragraph (a), (b), or (c), the commissioner of public safety may issue
a special motorcycle permit, restricted or qualified as the commissioner of public safety deems
proper, to any person demonstrating a need for the permit and unable to qualify for a standard
driver's license.
Subd. 3. Vehicle equipment. (a) Any motorcycle with a seat designed or suited for use by
a passenger shall be equipped with footrests for the passenger. No person shall operate any
motorcycle on the streets and highways after January I, 1971, unless such motorcycle is equipped
with at least one rear view mirror so attached and adjusted as to reflect to the operator a view of the
roadway for a distance of at least 200 feet to the rear of the motorcycle and is equipped with not
http://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/getpub.php?type=s&year=current&num=169 .974
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169.974, Minnesota Statutes 2006
less than one horn which shall be audible at a distance of at least 200 feet under normal conditions.
(b) All other applicable provisions of this chapter pertaining to motorcycle and other
motor vehicle equipment shall apply to motorcycles, except those which by their nature have
no application.
Subd. 4. Equipment for operator and passenger. (a) No person under the age of 18 shall
operate or ride a motorcycle on the streets and highways of this state without wearing protective
headgear that complies with standards established by the commissioner of public safety; and no
person shall operate a motorcycle without wearing an eye-protective device.
(b) The provisions of this subdivision shall not apply to persons during their participation
in a parade for which parade a permit or other official authorization has been granted by a local
governing body or other governmental authority or to persons riding within an enclosed cab.
Subd. 5. Driving rules. (a) An operator of a motorcycle shall ride only upon a permanent
and regular seat which is attached to the vehicle for that purpose. No other person shall ride on
a motorcycle; except that passengers may ride upon a permanent and regular operator's seat
if designed for two persons, or upon additional seats attached to the vehicle to the rear of the
operator's seat, or in a sidecar attached to the vehicle; provided, however, that the operator of
a motorcycle shall not cany passengers in a number in excess of the designed capacity of the
motorcycle or sidecar attached to it. No passenger shall be carried in a position that will interfere
with the safe operation of the motorcycle or the view of the operator.
(b) No person shall ride upon a motorcycle as a passenger unless, when sitting astride the
seat, the person can reach the footrests with both feet.
(c) No person, except passengers of sidecars or drivers and passengers of three-wheeled
motorcycles, shall operate or ride upon a motorcycle except while sitting astride the seat, facing
forward, with one leg on either side of the motorcycle.
(d) No person shall operate a motorcycle while canying animals, packages, bundles, or other
cargo which prevent the person from keeping both hands on the handlebars.
(e) No person shall operate a motorcycle between lanes of moving or stationary vehicles
headed in the same direction, nor shall any person drive a motorcycle abreast of or overtake or
pass another vehicle within the same traffic lane, except that motorcycles may, with the consent of
both drivers, be operated not more than two abreast in a single traffic lane.
(f) Motor vehicles including motorcycles are entitled to the full use of a traffic lane and no
motor vehicle may be driven or operated in a manner so as to deprive a motorcycle of the full
use of a traffic lane.
(g) A person operating a motorcycle upon a roadway must be granted the rights and is subject
to the duties applicable to a motor vehicle as provided by law, except as to those provisions
which by their nature can have no application.
(h) Paragraph (e) of this subdivision does not apply to police officers in the performance of
their official duties.
(i) No person shall operate a motorcycle on a street or highway unless the headlight or
headlights are lighted at all times the motorcycle is so operated.
(j) A person parking a motorcycle on the roadway of a street or highway must:
(1) ifparking in a marked parking space, park the motorcycle completely within the marked
space; and
(2) park the motorcycle in such a way that the front of the motorcycle is pointed or angled
toward the nearest lane of traffic to the extent practicable and necessary to allow the operator to (i)
view any traffic in both directions of the street or highway without having to move the motorcycle
into a lane of traffic and without losing balance or control of the motorcycle, and (ii) ride the
motorcycle forward and directly into a lane of traffic when the lane is sufficiently clear of traffic.
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169.974, Minnesota Statutes 2006
, "...'
Subd. 6.[Repealed, 1999 c 230 s 46]
Subd. 7. Noise limits. After December 31, 1978, noise rules adopted by the Pollution Control
Agency for motor vehicles pursuant to section 169.693 shall also apply to motorcycles.
History: 1967 c 875 s 1-5; 1969 c 1123 s 1-3; 1969 c 1129 art 1 s 18; 1971 c 226 s 1; 1971 c
491 s 35; 1974 c 133 s 1; 1975 c 29 s 3-5; 1976 c 295 s 1; 1977 c 17 s 1-4; 1977 c 134 s 1; 1981 c
357 s 63; 1982 c 548 art 4 s 13; 1983 c 216 art 1 s 29,30; 1983 c 345 s 8; 1984 c 549 s 32,33;
1985 c 248 s 70; 1986 c 444; 1995 c 40 s 1; 1997 c 159 art 2 s 31; 1998 c 398 art 5 s 55; 2000 c
489 art 6 s 30; 2001 c 60 s 1; 2002 c 364 s 18; 2002 c 371 art 1 s 49
Page 3 of3
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http://www.revisor.leg.state.mn.us/bin/getpub.php?type=s&year=current&num=169 .974
2/4/2007
CHAPTER 173-62 WAC
MOTOR VEmCLE NOISE PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
Last Update: 9/30/80
WAC
173-62-010
173-62-020
173-62-030
173-62-040
173-62-050
173-62-060
173-62-070
Authority and purpose.
Definitions.
Standards.
Exemptions.
Implementation schedules.
Enforcement.
Effective date.
WAC 173--62-010 Authority and purpose.
(1) Under RCW 70.107.030 (5) ofthe Noise Control Act of 1974 (chapter 183, Laws of 1974),
the legislature directed the department of ecology, in exercising rule-making authority to give
first priority to the adoption of motor vehicle noise performance standards. The purpose of
this chapter is to carry out that legislative directive through the adoption of noise emission
standards for new motor vehicles and noise emission standards for the operation of motor
vehicles on public highways.
(2) Local needs. The standards established in this chapter provide several methods of evaluating
motor vehicle noise levels. Nothing in these rules is meant to require enforcement agencies or
local governments to adopt or use every standard in this chapter to determine a violation.
Specific local needs shall dictate the standard(s) which may be adopted or used.
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 70.107 RCW. 80--14-041 (Order DE 80--29), ~ 173-62-010, filed 9/30/80; Order
DE 74-33, ~ 173-62-010, filed 1/30/75, effective 7/1/75.]
WAC 173--62-020 Definitions. As used in this chapter:
(I) "dBA" ImUlS the sound level in decibels measured using the "/J(' weighting network on a
sound level meter as specified in the American National Standard Specification for Sound
Level Meters S 1.4-1971. A decibel is a unit of sound, based on a logarithmic scale, of the
ratio ofthe magnitude of a particular sound pressure to a standard reference pressure of20
micropascals;
(2) "Department" means the department of ecology;
(3) "Director" rrans director ofthe department of ecology;
(4) "Gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR)" ImUlS the value specified by the manufacturer as the
loaded weight of a single vehicle;
(5) ''In-use'' motor vehicle is any motor vehicle which is used on a public highway, except farm
vehicles as defined under RCW 46.04.181 ;
(6) "Motor vehicle" ImUlS any vehicle which is self-propelled, used primarily for transporting
persons or property upon public highways and required to be licensed under RCW 46.16.010
(aircraft, water craft and vehicles used exclusively on stationary rails or tracks are not motor
vehicles as that term is used herein);
173-62 WAC Page 1 9/30/80
(7) "Motorcycle" means any motor vehicle having a saddle for the use ofthe rider and designed to
travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground, except :farm tractors;
(8) "Muftler" means a device consisting ofa series of chambers or other mechanical designs for
the purpose of receiving exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine and effective in
reducing noise to comply with the standards of this chapter;
(9) "New motor vehicle" means a motor vehicle manufactured after December 31, 1975, whose
equitable or legal title has never been transferred to a person who, in good faith, purchases the
new motor vehicle for purposes other than resale;
(10) ''Off-highway vehicle" means any self-propelled vehicle not used primarily for transporting
persons or property upon public highways nor required to be licensed under RCW 46.16.010 ;
(11) "Person" means any individual, corporation, partnership, association, governmental body,
state agency or other entity whatsoever;
(12) "Public highway" means the entire width between the boundary lines of every way publicly
maintained by the department of highways or any county or city when any part thereof is
generally open to the use of the public for purposes of vehicular travel as a matter of right;
(13) "Sound level" means a weighted sound pressure level measured by use of a sound level meter
using the "I>(' weighting network and reported as dBA.
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 70.107 RCW. 80-14-041 (Order DE 80-29), ~ 173-62-020, filed 9/30/80; Order
DE 75-17, ~ 173-62-020, filed 8/11/75; Order DE 74-33, ~ 173-62-020, filed 1/30/75, effective 7/1/75.]
WAC 17~2-O30 Standards.
(1) No person shall operate any motor vehicle or any combination of such vehicles upon any
public highway under any conditions of grade, load, acceleration or deceleration in such a
manner as to exceed the maximum permissible sound levels for the category of vehicle in
Table I, as measured at a distance of 50 feet (15.2 meters) from the center ofthe lane of travel
within the speed limits specified, under procedures established by the state commission on
equipment in chapter 204-56 WAC, ''procedures for measuring motor vehicle sound levels."
173-62 WAC Page 2 9/30/80
Table I
IN-USE MOTOR VEIDCLE NOISE PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
Measured @ 50 feet (15.2 meters)
Maximum Sound Level, dBA
Speed Zones
Vehicle 45 mph Over
Category Effective (72 kph) 45 mph Stationary
(type) Date or less (72 kph) Test
Motorcycles July I, 1980 78 82 N/A
Automobiles, light
trucks and all other
motor vehicles 10,000
pounds (4536 kg)
GVWR or less July 1, 1980 72 78 N/A
35 mph Over
(56 kph) 35 mph
or less (56 kph)
All motor vehicles
over 10,000 pounds
(4536 kg) GVWR June I, 1977 86 90 86
1986 and after Reserved Reserved Reserved
(2) Every motor vehicle operated upon the public highways shall at all times be equipped with an
exhaust system and a mufller in good working order and constant operation to prevent
excessive or unusual noise.
(3) No person shall operate a motor vehicle in such a manner as to cause or allow to be emitted
squealing, screeching or other such noise from the tires in contact with the ground because of
rapid acceleration or excessive speed around comers or other such reason, except that noise
resulting from emergency braking to avoid imminent danger shall be exempt from this
provision.
(4) No person shall operate any motor vehicle upon any public highway if the vehicle exhaust
system exceeds the maximum permissible sound levels of Table II for the category and year of
vehicle, as measured at a distance of twenty inches (0.5 meter) from the exhaust outlet under
procedures established by the state commission on equipment in chapter 204-56 WAC,
"procedures for measuring motor vehicle sound levels."
(5) No person shall sell or offer for sale a new motor vehicle except an off-highway vehicle, which
produces a maximum noise exceeding the noise levels in Table III at a distance of 50 feet
(15.2 meters) under acceleration test procedures established by the state commission on
equipment in chapter 204- 56 WAC, "procedures for measuring motor vehicle sound levels."
173-62 WAC Page 3 9/30/80
Table II
IN-USE MOTOR VEHICLE EXHAUST SYSTEM NOISE PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
Measured @ 20 inches (0.5 meter)
Vehicle Category
Maximum Sound
(type)
Model Year
Level, dBA
Motorcycles
before 1986
1986 and after
99
(reserved)
Automobiles, light trucks
and all other motor
vehicles 10,000 pounds
(4536 kg) GVWR or less
before 1986
1986 and after
95
(reserved)
Table III
MAXIMUM SOUND LEVELS FOR NEW MOTOR VEHICLES
Measured @ 50 feet (15.2 meters)
Vehicle
Category
Level,
(type)
Date of
Maximum
Sound
Manufacture
dBA
Any motor vehicle
over 10,000
pounds (4536 kg)
GVWR excluding buses
before January 1, 1978
after January 1, 1978
after January 1, 1982
86
83
80
All buses over
10,000 pounds
(4536 kg) GVWR
after January 1, 1980
after January I, 1983
after January 1, 1986
85
83
80
Motorcycles
after January 1, 1976
after January 1, 1986
83
80
Automobiles, light trucks
and all other motor
vehicles 10,000 pounds
(4536 kg) GVWR or
less
after January I, 1976
80
173-62 WAC Page 4 9/30/80
[Statutory Authority: Chapter 70.107 RCW. 80-14-041 (Order DE 80-29), ~ 173-62-030, filed 9/30/80; Order
DE 77-2, ~ 173-62-030, filed 6/1/77; Order DE 75-17, ~ 173-62-030, filed 8/11/75; Order DE 74-33, ~ 173-
62-030 , filed 1/30/75, effective 7/1/75.]
WAC 173-62-040 Exemptions. The provisions ofthis chapter shall not apply to noise
caused by auxiliary equipment on motor vehicles used for highway maintenance, nor to noise
caused in the performance of emergency work for the immediate safety, health or welfare of the
community or of individuals of the community, or to restore property to a safe condition
following a public calamity.
[Order DE 75-17, ~ 173-62-040, filed 8/11/75; Order DE 74-33, ~ 173-62-040, filed 1/30/75, effective 7/1/75.]
WAC 173-62-050 Implementation schedules.
(1) Conditions of issuance. The department may approve and issue to any person, an
implementation schedule for meeting any particular requirement ofthis chapter, ifit finds that
immediate compliance with such requirement cannot be achieved because of conditions
beyond the control of such person or because of special circumstances rendering immediate
compliance unreasonable in light of economic or physical factors or because of the
nonavailability of feasible technology or control methods.
(2) Requesting procedure. Implementation schedules shall be issued only upon application in
writing to the department. Such application shall state in a concise manner the facts to show
cause why such schedule should be approved. Any aggrieved person may appeal the
department's decision on an application to the pollution control hearings board pursuant to
chapter 43.21B RCW.
[Order DE 74-33, ~ 173-62-050, filed 1/30/75, effective 7/1/75.]
WAC 173-62-060 Enforcement.
(I) Measurements shall be made with a sound level meter meeting Type I, SIA, 2 or S2A
requirements as specified in the American National Standards Specifications for Sound Level
Meters S 1.4-1971 as required under measurement procedures established in chapter 204-56
WAC, "procedures for measuring motor vehicle sound levels."
(2) Violation of any in-use motor vehicle noise standard set forth in this chapter shall be a traffic
infraction, enforced by such authorities and in such manner as violations of chapter 46.37
RCW.
(3) Law enforcement personnel selected to measure vehicle sound levels shall have received
training in the techniques of sound measurement and the operation of sound measuring
instruments.
(4) Any enforcement officer who by use of the initial inspection procedures of chapter 204-56
WAC suspects that a motor vehicle may be in violation of the standards of this chapter may
require the operator to have the vehicle presented for sound level measurement.
Measurements of a motor vehicle may be performed at off-road sites to determine compliance
with the in-use standards.
(5) Any operator who fails to comply with the directive to present the vehicle to a sound level
measurement test shall be in violation of this chapter.
173-62 WAC Page 5 9/30/80