Are there noise rules for motorcycles in France?

Reader Questions: Do noise pollution laws exist for vehicles in France? Motorbikes often drive past our home and make so much racket.

Loud vehicle noises – particularly from motorbikes – is a frequent complaint, especially in rural areas. 

Legal limits on how much noise a motorbike can make are in place, based on the size of the engine, however vehicles are often tampered with to produce louder sounds. 

As of this year, contrôle technique roadworthiness tests for motorcycles (now required three-yearly) measure the noise emissions to prevent vehicles being above these, although this cannot prevent certain riders adapting their motorcycles after tests have taken pace.

Radar trial could see wider implementation

In theory, a €135 fine can be applied by a police officer if they observe someone riding a bike that is too noisy, however this rarely happens. 

Having said this, sound radars have now been trialled in several areas to test effectiveness in rural, semi-urban, and urban areas. 

These could in future result in fines in the post, as for speeding, however the trials have at present been suspended.

Their completion would be subject to a vote by parliament. As a result, it may be worth writing to your local MP or senator to see if they will ask the government about renewing the trial. 

Companies making the noise radars are said to be close to obtaining final approval for their models, however a new regulatory framework is also needed in order for them to be used to issue fines.

In the meantime, you could ask your mairie to install signs warning people about noise rules or contact the local police or gendarmerie.