Mufflers and Noise Level Limits

All vessel engines must be equipped with an effective muffling device. Vessel operators may not hear sound signals or voices if the engine is not adequately muffled.

• Vessels built on or after January 1, 1993, must not exceed a noise level of 88 dB(A) when measured at stationary idle speed from a distance of 40 inches or more.
• Vessels built before January 1, 1993, must not exceed a noise level of 90 dB(A) when measured at stationary idle speed from a distance of 40 inches or more.
• No one should operate or let anyone else operate a vessel that exceeds a noise level of 75 dB(A) when measured from a distance of 50 feet or more.
• Some valves that divert exhaust around mufflers may be approved in Connecticut.
• It is illegal to modify your engine exhaust system if the result is more noise.
• A law enforcement officer may request the operator to submit to an on-site noise level test. Failure to submit to this test may result in substantial fines.