Adopt Ordinance #26-01, Amending Section 30-5, Nuisances

During 2025, the Police Department and a City Council Member received separate complaints of an ongoing nuisance noise disturbance reported by Ramsey citizens. The complaint to the City Council Member was made on behalf of an entire neighborhood. The complainants stated that there has become an ongoing loud disturbance of semi-trucks using engine brakes on St. Francis Blvd. NW (Highway 47) in the area between Sunwood Dr. NW and Nowthen Blvd. NW.

From 2020 to 2025, the police department handled over 1000 noise complaints; of those, roughly 200 involved vehicle noise. Of those 200, 4 were about semi trucks using engine brakes, and 4 more were about general semi-truck noise.

An engine brake retarder, commonly known as a "Jake Brake", is a supplemental braking system for heavy vehicles that uses the engine itself to slow the vehicle down, reducing reliance on traditional friction brakes, preventing overheating, and saving wear. They are known for their loud noise because it essentially turns the engine into a powerful air compressor, creating resistance that helps maintain speed on descents without requiring constant brake application.

Minnesota State Statute §169.69, as well as Ramsey City Ordinance 30-5(3), both address vehicle noise laws. Before installing a sign to educate drivers and help stop this nuisance, it is recommended to add specific language to the city code clarifying that the use of an engine retarding brake is prohibited.

It is recommended to add 30-5(3)(a), which would state, "It shall be a violation of this section to intentionally use an engine retarding brake on any public highway, street, parking lot, or alley within the city that causes abnormal or excessive noise from the engine, except in an emergency." This subsection will provide clear direction to vehicles being operated in Ramsey that using an engine brake retarding is a noise nuisance. Through signage, education, and enforcement, Ramsey residents will be protected from this noise nuisance.

Posting a copy of the Ordinance on the bulletin board in the lobby of City Hall on the day of the introduction, and maintaining this posting until the day after the adoption.

Introduction date: 1/27/2026
Ordinance posting dates: 1/27/2026 to 2/11/2026
Adoption date: 2/10/2026
Publication date: 2/13/2026
Effective date: 2/13/2026

This ordinance becomes effective upon publication, subject to City Charter Section 5.07.

Costs of this project are considered a part of staff's typical duties.

Staff believes that adopting the proposed ordinance amendment, and subsequent sign installation to educate drivers, will reduce noise disturbances in the area.
Staff recommends adoption of the proposed ordinance.

Motion to Adopt Ordinance #26-01 amending Section 30-5.

Roll call vote.