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Rhode Island Exhaust & Muffler Laws (2026)

Info: Every vehicle needs a muffler in good working order and running at all times so it doesn't make excessive or unusual noise, muffler cutouts and bypasses (which route exhaust around the muffler) are prohibited on highways, and an exhaust system modified to be louder than the manufacturer's original equipment counts as defective.

InfoVerified Jul 27, 2026

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Every vehicle needs a muffler in good working order and running at all times so it doesn't make excessive or unusual noise, muffler cutouts and bypasses (which route exhaust around the muffler) are prohibited on highways, and an exhaust system modified to be louder than the manufacturer's original equipment counts as defective. A defective exhaust system has to be repaired or restored within 5 days. Rhode Island sets no decibel limit — the factory exhaust is the standard. Fine: $100 (R.I. Gen. Laws 31-23-13; fine schedule 31-41.1-4).

Official source: webserver.rilegislature.gov →

General legal information, not legal advice — verify important decisions with a licensed attorney.

Exhaust & Muffler in states bordering Rhode Island

The same rule in each neighboring state LawLert has verified, from that state’s own official source.

ConnecticutInfo
You can't install or use a gutted muffler, a muffler cutout, a straight exhaust, or a muffler missing its interior baffle plates — the only exception is a sanctioned race or public exhibition. …
Verified Jul 28, 2026 · Source: cga.ct.gov · Full Connecticut rule →
MassachusettsInfo
Your vehicle needs a muffler in good working order that prevents excessive noise, and cutouts, bypasses (which route exhaust around the muffler), removed baffles, and noise-amplifying exhaust are banned. Massachusetts sets no fixed decibel limit (M.G.L. c.90 § 16).
Verified Jun 19, 2026 · Source: malegislature.gov · Full Massachusetts rule →

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