OAR 250-010-0121: Mufflers

(1) The exhaust of every internal combustion engine used on any motorboat shall be effectively muffled at all times in accordance with ORS 830.260. The term “effectively muffled” shall mean the exhaust system contains a mechanical device or appliance, designed, constructed and so used as to reduce the exhaust noise emissions of a motorboat below the maximum noise levels established in section (2) of this rule. Such device or appliance must be integral to the motorboats’ exhaust system. Water muffling systems which meet this standard are those which incorporate a marine exhaust manifold. (2) A person shall operate a motorboat on the waters of this state in such a manner that does not exceed the following noise levels: (a) For engines manufactured before January 1, 1993, a maximum noise level of 90 dBA when subjected to a stationary test as prescribed by SAE J-2005_199112; (b) For engines manufactured after January 1, 1993, a maximum noise level of 88 dBA when subjected to a stationary test as prescribed by SAE J-2005_199112; (c) A maximum noise level of 84 dBA measured as specified in the shoreline sound level measurement procedure for recreational motorboats J1970_201102. (3) This regulation shall not apply to motor-boats competing, under a permit issued by the State Marine Board pursuant to ORS 830.375 or a United States Coast Guard permit, in a regatta, a boat race, or while on official trials for speed records during the time and in a designated area authorized by the permit; and those boats testing in areas designated by the State Marine Board pursuant to ORS 830.350. [Publications: Publications referenced are available to view at the Oregon State Marine Board.]