The Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT) will start installing noise detection cameras as part of a pilot program beginning September 15. The first camera will be set up on the H-3 Freeway at the Halekou Interchange, with another to follow on Ala Moana Boulevard near Kalia Road on September 16. The remaining eight locations in the initial top ten list are scheduled for installation by January 2026.
This pilot program, authorized under Act 63 (23), is designed to collect data on vehicle noise levels and their sources across O‘ahu roads. According to HDOT, “The purpose of the noise detection pilot is to gather data on the types and levels of noise generated by vehicles on O‘ahu roads. No tickets will be issued through this pilot.”
HDOT selected camera locations based on complaints received by the Honolulu Police Department (HPD). An additional twelve sites may also be added pending further engineering assessments. More information about these locations can be found at https://hidot.hawaii.gov/highways/noise-detection-cameras/.
Monthly reports will summarize incidents where detected noise exceeds 90 decibels and detail what type of vehicle or component was responsible, such as engines or mufflers. HDOT states, “These reports will be used to help with future legislation on vehicle noise and HPD enforcement.” Existing laws already prohibit modifications that increase exhaust or muffler noise from motor vehicles, motorcycles, or mopeds.
