British motorists heading to Switzerland this summer are being warned about strict new noise regulations that could result in fines of up to £9,000.
The Swiss government has tightened its existing "quiet time" laws, which apply from 10pm to 6am. Under the updated rules, making excessive noise with an internal combustion engine during these hours is now considered a criminal offence. This includes revving engines or using modified exhausts that create unnecessary noise.
Drivers found breaking the law could face fines of up to 10,000 Swiss Francs – around £8,990. Even leaving your engine running unnecessarily now carries a higher fine, rising from 60 to 80 Swiss Francs (£54 to £72).
To enforce the rules, Swiss authorities are using noise-detecting cameras, which are triggered if a vehicle exceeds 82 decibels. In areas without this technology, police are patrolling known hotspots and following up on public complaints.
Modifying exhaust systems to make cars louder is also banned.
Meanwhile, Switzerland is preparing to introduce new requirements for electric and hybrid vehicles. From mid-2025, these quieter vehicles must emit artificial sounds to help visually impaired pedestrians detect them.
These noise laws are similar to those already in place in parts of London. Kensington and Chelsea Council, for example, has been running a successful programme using acoustic cameras to catch drivers with overly loud vehicles.
The technology, which has been in use since 2020, is now installed in areas such as Holland Road, Kensington High Street, and Sloane Street. During the initial trial, over 2,000 incidents were recorded, leading to dozens of fines and warnings. As of October 2024, nearly 1,000 fines have been issued to drivers exceeding the legal noise limit.
Councillor Johnny Thalassites, who helped introduce the scheme, said: “It’s not acceptable for drivers to hit 100 decibels — that’s as loud as a jet taking off. It seriously disrupts sleep and harms residents’ health.”
Councillor Sof McVeigh added: “I’m pleased the cameras are leading to fines. They’re clearly acting as a deterrent.”
