Whereas noise pollution has wide-ranging and well documented negative effects on public health and well-being and social connectedness, and vehicular noise pollution, from such sources as aftermarket exhaust systems are a particularly acute source of noise pollution, and these impacts disproportionately affect residents living near major thoroughfares, which are often more affordable housing types; And whereas many jurisdictions have sought to address the numerous challenges to the effective monitoring and enforcement of existing vehicular noise regulations through conventional law enforcement approaches by deploying noise cameras: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM ask that the Province of British Columbia explore the feasibility of using noise cameras to effectively enforce vehicular noise regulations through the creation of a noise camera pilot project for municipalities to opt into.
Ministry of Transportation and Transit The Motor Vehicle Act and regulations provide for the regulation of excessive vehicle noise in BC, including the setting of related offences and fines. A motor vehicle, including a motorcycle, is required to have an exhaust system that functions without excessive noise. Furthermore, drivers are prohibited from operating a motor vehicle that has been modified with a muffler or exhaust system that increases exhaust noise. Peace officers can issue a violation ticket and 109 fine for contraventions. They also have the authority to direct any vehicle to a designated inspection facility if the vehicle appears mechanically unsafe or non- compliant with the Motor Vehicle Act. In addition, municipalities may regulate excessive or unnecessary noise within their municipal boundaries by enacting a bylaw. Ministry staff are aware of the issue of excessive vehicle noise and are monitoring other jurisdictions where vehicle noise cameras have been tested, such as Calgary and Edmonton. The ministry will continue to monitor this issue to determine the potential effectiveness of this technology for use as an enforcement tool in BC.