Bikes must meet noise standards

GETTING a permit to ride a motorbike under Cardinia Shire’s new recreational vehicle policy should not be a problem – provided it’s not too noisy.
That’s the message from council officials.
Council’s local laws manager, Alan Giachin said that under the policy, introduced on 1 January, permits would be granted only if the recreational vehicle met noise emission standards.
Permits are valid for 12 months.
“This policy will provide for the use of vehicles such as minibikes, motorbikes and gokarts for recreational purposes while minimising the impact on neighbours’ amenity, nearby businesses and farms and the environment,” Mr Giachin said.
“We would encourage people wanting to use these vehicles for purposes other than farming to contact council. The permit requirements are very reasonable and designed to cater for both the needs of the vehicle users and the surrounding property owners.”
Mr Giachin said council’s stance sought to provide a compromise.
“It is a matter of balancing the needs of all members of the community and providing options for people who enjoy such activities, while preserving the qualities of life other people seek, such as the tranquillity of the bush.”
Mr Giachin said all new vehicles would generally meet the required noise emission standards, but owners wishing to gain a permit for older vehicles may be required to provide a certificate of compliance to EPA noise standards.
He encouraged all people wishing to use recreational vehicles to contact council’s local laws unit for information about where they could be used and for details of how to apply for a permit.
“Our officers are keen to assist people who do wish to use these vehicles to go through the necessary process of finding out what their responsibilities are and to take steps to comply with the policy. We encourage people to make inquiries now and apply for their permits as soon as possible,” Mr Giachin said.
“As with many of our local laws and policies we consider education and support to be a vital part of the process of implementation and our officers will be more than happy to discuss the policy, its implications and the owners’ responsibilities with anyone seeking information,” he said.
For more information, contact council’s local laws unit on 1300 787 624.