Billings council hears police proposal to expand vehicle-noise enforcement and considers mandatory fines

Billings Police Chief Rich St. John presented proposed amendments to the city's noise regulations on March 23 as part of an aggressive-driving initiative, saying the changes would modernize language, clarify enforcement and expand coverage beyond amplified vehicle music.

The draft ordinance would add a plainly audible standard usable by officers without requiring decibel meters in every instance, allow citation for revving engines, loud mufflers, squealing tires and other common vehicle-noise sources, and explicitly align city code with state motor-vehicle statutes. Chief St. John said the goal is to give officers a predictable, content‑neutral standard to enforce quality-of-life complaints while respecting constitutional protections.

Council debate focused on penalties and enforceability. Several council members urged stronger deterrence, proposing that the municipal-infractions penalty section (18‑1304) be supplemented by mandatory minimum fines for this ordinance — suggestions included making the current maximums effectively the minimums (first offense $300, repeat $500). The city attorney and staff said they will return with draft language and a range for mandatory minimums that conforms to state limits.

Council members also asked how officers would enforce offenses by motorcyclists and groups that disperse quickly. The chief said enforcement details would combine targeted enforcement (including unmarked cars and occasional drone use), public education and coordination with businesses where gatherings occur, and that eluding law is now a felony in the state, which could provide stronger deterrence.

Next steps: staff will draft penalty language and return with options, and council directed staff to consider whether related code sections on reckless driving and speeding should be revisited as part of an enforcement package.