Causing avoidable noise: Noisy drivers beware - up to 10,000 francs fine for loud exhausts!
Since January 1, 2025, the following applies in Switzerland: If you intentionally cause avoidable noise, you could face a hefty fine of up to CHF 10,000.
Particularly targeted: drivers who cause banging noises with manipulated exhaust systems or deliberate misfiring. What sounds like a harmless show to some is now a clear violation of the law, which can result in criminal proceedings and disqualification from driving.
The new paragraph against “sound posers”
The Federal Council has tightened the provisions of the Traffic Regulation Ordinance (VRV) regarding the avoidance of noise. The targeted generation of popping noises (pop and bang) is now also prohibited under the term causing avoidable noise. Tuning fans, sports car drivers or motorcyclists who like to be heard are particularly affected.
What does that mean in concrete terms?
- making banging noises is considered to be causing avoidable noise
- new criminal proceedings are initiated, with a possible fine of up to CHF 10,000 plus administrative measures
- Vehicle-specific modifications such as flap exhausts or software tuning are also under observation
Where does “unnecessary” end – and where does arbitrariness begin?
Opinions differ widely: is this protection of the public or excessive bureaucracy? What is unnecessary noise for some is part of the driving culture for others. One thing is clear: the police now have a great deal of discretion when it comes to reporting those who cause avoidable noise. This will undoubtedly lead to legal disputes.
What to do in the event of a complaint?
Anyone caught by the authorities for causing avoidable noise should act quickly. It’s not just a matter of money: you could also be stripped of your passport, have your name entered on the criminal record or face expensive follow-up checks at the road traffic office.
Our tip: make use of your right to refuse to give evidence during a police check – and seek legal assistance immediately.
Conclusion
The new regulation on causing avoidable noise is causing controversy – in the truest sense of the word. If you want to be on the safe side, you should inform yourself well and not risk every decibel. And anyone who is affected can rely on us.
📞 Contact us for a consultation! – Competent, discreet and solution-oriented.
FF-Law – Your lawyers for traffic law
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about noise from vehicles
Since January 1, 2025, the intentional creation of avoidable noise has been explicitly prohibited under the stricter Traffic Regulations Ordinance (VRV). This includes, in particular, the deliberate generation of banging noises through deliberate misfiring (so-called “pop and bang”).
The penalties have been massively increased. Instead of a simple administrative fine, criminal proceedings are now initiated, with the threat of a fine of up to CHF 10,000. In addition, administrative measures such as the withdrawal of a driver’s license, an entry in the criminal record or expensive follow-up checks of the vehicle are possible.
The targeted generation of banging noises (“pop and bang”) is now prohibited. Other vehicle-specific modifications that cause noise, such as flap exhausts or corresponding software tuning, are also under closer scrutiny by the authorities.
It is recommended that you make use of your right to refuse to give evidence during a police check. As you may be fined heavily and may also have your passport withdrawn, you should seek legal advice immediately to protect your rights.
Matthias Fricker
Attorney at law and partner at Fricker and Füllemann Attorneys at Law
Studied at the University of St. Gallen, graduating with a Master in Law (M.A. HSG in Law) in 2012, registered in the Bar Register of the Canton of Zurich, member of the Zurich Bar Association.
Fabian Füllemann
Attorney at law and partner at Fricker and Füllemann Attorneys at Law
Studied at the Universities of St. Gallen and Zurich, graduating with a Master of Law UZH in 2013, registered with the Zurich Bar Registry, member of the Zurich Bar Association.
