Hear that? It’s the sound of your insurance going up. If you enjoy revving, doing burnouts or driving without a muffler, Loudoun County’s judicial system will be your biggest fan come September 1, 2016. The new law promotes adhering to county noise ordinances by punishing motorist and motorcyclists who engage in loud automotive related noise making.

From the Loudoun Sheriff’s Office, “the amendments to the ordinance prohibit some noise based on time of day or duration of sound. For example:

Music may not be plainly audible and discernable within 100 feet or more from the sound’s source during a private party or other similar non-governmental event between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.

A horn or alarm on any motor vehicle, motorcycle, bicycle, or other vehicle on a street or in a public place cannot be sounded for more than 20 consecutive seconds except as a danger warning or as permitted by law.

Spinning of tires and racing of engines in a motor vehicle or motorcycle are prohibited as well as the emission of noise created by the absence of a muffler.

That last one is the kicker for many modified vehicles in the county. Aside from the obvious fact that you shouldn’t be revving during meets and / or doing burnouts like a douche (RIP Kohl’s Cars and Coffee), the muffler law may end up getting a few tickets for some otherwise law abiding citizens.

Punishments include a Class 3 Misdemeanor fined at $500 bucks to a Class one with the hefty price tag of $2,500 and a max of 12 months in jail. “Violations of the noise ordinance range from a Class 3 misdemeanor, which carries a maximum fine of $500, to a Class 1 misdemeanor, which carries a maximum penalty of twelve months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Over the next several weeks the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office will conduct an education phase prior to any citations issued for violations of the ordinance. Warnings will be issued to educate residents on noise levels that are now in violation of the county code. During the education phase, repeat violators may be subject to a citation after their initial warning.”

The change in the law was brought on when the VA Beach laws after which the Loudoun Laws were patterned were struck down for being deemed too vague leaving the Northern Virginia County somewhat lawless when it comes to noise ordinances and vehicles.

* photo from wallpaperfolder.com *