DNR To Crack Down On Noisy Snowmobiles This Season

There's a new law that took effect on July 1st, 2026, that may have flown under your radar. The Minnesota DNR is expected to start enforcing the law soon.

Snowmobile Muffler Requirements As of July 1st, 2026

July isn't when you usually think about snowmobiling, but that's one of the big laws that has changed on July 1st. The DNR is cracking down on excessive noise from snowmobile exhaust. They are specifically targeting aftermarket exhaust that produces a sharp popping or crackling sound.

Crack Down On Excessive Noise

To enforce this new regulation, all snowmobiles operated, offered for sale, or sold in Minnesota must have an exhaust system that does not emit or produce a sharp popping or crackling sound. An aftermarket muffler will be required to have a stamped certification requirement.

Page 22 of the snowmobiling handbook states that all snowmobiles must be equipped at all times with a muffler in good working order.

Any snowmobile operated, offered for sale, or sold in Minnesota must have an exhaust system that does not emit or produce a sharp popping or crackling sound.

New snowmobiles sold must comply with the muffler requirements.

Read More: Duluth Drag Races Happen September 26-27 In Duluth

Stamp Requirement For After-Market Mufflers

Beginning July 1, 2026, all after-market mufflers installed on a snowmobile must have a permanent stamp, clearly visible on the muffler, certified by the muffler manufacturer and stating that the muffler conforms to the snowmobile muffler noise limits specified by the rules of the commissioner.

Exceptions

This requirement does not apply to organized races or events held on private lands approved by the commissioner of natural resources.