Brazil may adopt prison for those who drive noisy cars or motorcycles

Kim Kataguiri's text targets adulterated exhausts and transforms recidivism into a criminal misdemeanor with a prison sentence

Idea that is being processed in the Chamber of Deputies provides for jail in case of recurrence in circulation with noisy vehicles (Foto: Reprodução)
By Eduardo Passos
Published on 2026-01-26 at 08:00 AM

A new bill in progress in the Chamber of Deputies intends to significantly toughen the fight against noise pollution caused by vehicles in Brazil. The text proposes to make it a criminal misdemeanor for drivers caught with modifications that increase noise, such as the use of open exhaust or adulterated silencers.

Currently, the Brazilian Traffic Code (CTB) treats excessive noise only as an administrative infraction, punishable by a fine and retention of the vehicle for regularization. The new proposal (PL 4573/25), authored by Deputy Kim Kataguiri (União-SP), seeks to increase the seriousness of the conduct for those who insist on the error.

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Simple imprisonment and double fine

According to the text presented, the driver who is fined for the same infraction within a period of 12 months will be subject to a simple prison sentence (which can be served in a semi-open or open regime) or a fine of R$ 1 thousand. If there is a new recurrence, the amount of the fine will be doubled.

In the justification of the article, Kataguiri argues that the current sanctions are insufficient to curb disrespect for environmental standards and public tranquility in cities. “Recidivism demonstrates a high degree of disrespect for the rules and imposes on the State the need for a firmer response,” said the parliamentarian.

Procedure

The bill makes it explicit that any installation, removal or alteration of equipment with the aim of increasing the original noise of the vehicle will be framed in the new rule. The proposal is being processed in a conclusive manner and will be analyzed by the Traffic and Transport committees; Administration and Public Service; and Constitution and Justice and Citizenship (CCJ). If approved, it will go to the Senate.

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