Shah Mat

http://www.dgif.virginia.gov/boating...IRED_EQUIPMENT

Scroll down to "Muffling Device"

FYI......

A friend of mine got stopped a few weeks ago in Aquia Creek (which is considered VA waters) and was told that his exhaust on his Sonic was illegal, even with switchable mufflers. He asked if there was a noise level required and they said it must be a "reasonable db level". He said one of them was pretty decent, but the other was kind of a prick. He didn't get a ticket, but did get checked for other required gear and equipment.

Doesn't sound like a big deal, never heard of this before. Just be prepared in case these people are in a bad mood that day. Hell, my CMI tails have baffles in them, right?

mwdill

yea,
they try it hear but without a set db limit they cant give a ticket.

Shah Mat

I haven't been to SML in a few years, I bet they are a little harder on you there. On the Potomac, the only noise hassle we get is an occosianal dirty look from blow boaters.

enticer

This law has been around for many years.......it comes from an automobile law........in which years ago, they used cut out and headers to alter the stock or standard exhaust.....so NOW they are running over to the marine based laws. Same old thing....they want it quieter

articfriends

iTrader: (1)

Switchable exhaust "captains call" is illegal in most states its just if you see johnny law you TURN IT ON to quiet position and you usually won't get hassled,Smitty

Semper Fi

It's better to have the mufflers on the boat and NOT draw attention to your boat. You could get a ticket for maybe not having 1 piece of safety gear (maybe you took a few xtra people and had 1 less life jacket)or worse, you could have 3-5 beers over a few hours in the hot sun and be really fine, but because of the heat and de-hydration now you are over the legal limit

engreps

A friend of mine received a ticket at SML for loud pipes with a stock small block chevy. They said it had to have baffles in the exhaust. When he went to court he showed pictures of the engine and said it had baffles. The judge said he didn't know what baffles were but the ranger must know it was to loud . Guilty $75.00 plus cost of court.