A Connecticut law passed in 2024 that allows towns and cities to install cameras that detect excessive noise from vehicles is beginning to take effect.
West Haven approved the installation of four automated noise detection devices along the shoreline and Ocean Avenue, where residents have complained most about loud vehicles, according to NBC Connecticut. These devices are meant to target modified mufflers and loud stereos.
The devices will be able to detect when a vehicle makes too much noise and exceeds the predetermined noise limit. If a vehicle exceeds the limit, the device will capture the vehicle’s license plate, and the registered owner could receive a citation. West Haven is still determining what the maximum noise level should be, according to CT Insider.
The devices will link directly to automated license plate readers that already exist rather than installing new standalone cameras. They are expected to be installed within the next one to two months.
The city plans to test and calibrate the devices before they are activated in order to make sure they accurately measure sound levels.
West Haven Mayor Dorinda Borer told NBC Connecticut that they are installing the cameras where they receive the most complaints.
NBC Connecticut reported that residents had mixed opinions about the new technology. Xiomairaliz Ayala of Meriden told NBC Connecticut that she thinks the cameras are a little excessive, but that they might be useful in certain areas like where older people live.
West Haven resident Mark Fournier told NBC Connecticut that he has mixed feelings on the devices and that his opinion differs based on where someone might live. He said that he understands the noise would bother people who live on main roads.
If someone receives a first-time violation, they could receive a fine of up to $100, and people could receive higher penalties if they have repeated offenses.
East Hartford and Wethersfield are other towns that have also authorized noise cameras as part of their local automated enforcement rules. Both have prioritized other things above activating their noise cameras.
East Hartford spokeswoman Marissa Baum told CT Insider that even though the town has passed the law, it has yet to start the next steps for installing the noise cameras.
Wethersfield Town Manager Frederick Presley told CT Insider in an emailed comment that the town is in its final stages of introducing its speed and red-light cameras. He said that once it is done with installing them, it plans to add the noise cameras.
A Wethersfield resident Thomas Carson said that he is eager for the town to install noise camera devices so that the town can better enforce the local noise ordinance, according to CT insider.
Brian O’Connor, director of public policy and advocacy for the Connecticut Conference of Municipalities, said he believes there is a growing interest in these noise cameras as a practical way to enforce local noise rules, according to CT Insider.