Government urged to take clear, decisive action on illegally modified exhausts
12 August 2026
Police and Crime Commissioner Donna Jones says the government must do more to tackle excessively noisy vehicle exhausts.
It’s currently illegal to modify a vehicle’s exhaust to make it louder, yet there’s no legally enforceable roadside decibel limit. That makes it harder for police forces nationwide to take positive action.
The Commissioner said: “The noise caused by these modified motorbikes and cars is unacceptable and unbearable for many.
“Countless people have told me how the constant racket is affecting their ability to enjoy their homes and get a decent night’s sleep.
“A lack of clarity from government is making enforcement difficult and inconsistent. It’s why ministers need to give police forces an objective and enforceable decibel limit alongside standardised noise-measurement equipment.
“While noise cameras already exist, they need to be made a legal means of enforcement – issuing penalties to motorists caught with excessively loud, illegal exhausts.
“This in turn will free up officers to get back on the frontline and enable people to live their lives undisturbed.”
According to the Department for Transport, the maximum legal limit for most new cars is around 70 decibels (dB), which is the same as the sound coming from a regular washing machine. EU noise standards state the legal limit for new motorcycles is between 73 and 77dB.
The Commissioner added: “The DfT’s 2022 noise camera trials demonstrated that acoustic camera technology can successfully identify vehicles generating excessive noise. The technology exists. What is now needed is the policy framework and legislative backing to enable it to be used effectively.
“Having a set roadside decibel limit and clear national guidance will not only help police and local authorities collect better evidence, but it will also act as a strong deterrent against illegal modification and anti-social motorists.
“Drivers and riders need to understand the rules and consequences. That comes from education and proper enforcement.
“I believe the government needs to take action but it’s also important I can demonstrate the scale of the problem and the impact it’s having.
“It’s why I’ve launched a survey to understand to better understand people’s experiences of vehicle exhaust noise and how it affects their day-to-day life.”
Hampshire & Isle of Wight’s Roads Policing Unit uses a range of tactics to deal with speeding, anti-social driving and late-night car meets, including Op Chromium.
Notorious hotspots include the A32 junction with the A272, Portsdown Hill in Portsmouth, Hayling Island, Lee-on-the-Solent, Netley, Hedge End, Winchester and central Southampton.
To report anti-social vehicles, contact Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary on 101 or click here. Report antisocial behaviour | Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary
The Commissioner’s survey will open at 8am on the 13th August 2026. To take part visit: https://survey.alchemer.eu/s3/91162017/OPCC-Survey-Exhaust-noise
It closes on the 1st September 2026.