Israel's Ramat Gan to Fine Drivers for Excessive Horn Use

The Israeli city of Ramat Gan is preparing to implement a new measure to combat noise pollution by fining drivers for unnecessary honking. The municipality plans to install specialized cameras at intersections capable of identifying the source of excessive horn noise. This initiative was approved by the Municipal Council as part of broader efforts against noise pollution.

Ramat Gan has secured funding from the Ministry of Environmental Protection to purchase six of these specialized cameras. The equipment will be strategically placed at six intersections in densely populated areas. The system will detect horn sounds and record the offending vehicle. Following a review by an authorized inspector, drivers found to be in violation will face a fine of 730 shekels.

However, the automatic issuance of fines will not commence immediately after camera installation. Municipal inspectors must first undergo specific certification from the Ministry of Environmental Protection to gain the necessary authority. The project is currently in its preparatory stages, involving technology selection, identification of key noise pollution hotspots, completion of legal procedures, and the establishment of a control mechanism. The installation of the equipment is slated to begin in 2027.

Ramat Gan is not the first Israeli city to adopt technological solutions for excessive road noise. Similar systems are already being implemented in Petah Tikva and Kiryat Ono. Tel Aviv-Yafo has previously updated its municipal regulations to allow for sanctions against unjustified horn use. The Ministry of Environmental Protection actively supports the expansion of these systems, having allocated 8.5 million shekels in late 2025 to a program assisting municipalities in acquiring and installing equipment for monitoring transport noise.

Ramat Gan Mayor Carmel Shama-Hacohen noted that attempts to increase penalties for illegal horn use have been made at the Knesset level, but without success thus far. The city intends to utilize its existing legal powers while legislative efforts continue. Previously, "Cursor" reported on a shortage of a popular product in Israel.