Mufflers and Noise Level Limits

Vessel operators may not hear sound signals or voices if the engine is not adequately muffled.

• The exhaust of every internal combustion engine used on any vessel must be muffled or baffled and water-injected so as to decrease noise. The only exceptions are those engines where the exhaust goes through the lower unit or outdrive when the vessel is planing.
• Enforcement officials are authorized to submit vessels to noise level tests and cite vessel operators whose vessels are not in compliance.
• Many Georgia lakes also have specific laws prohibiting vessels from making excessive or disturbing levels of noise.