Bassetlaw District Council is introducing tough new rules to stop drivers using their vehicles to cause disruption and distress to residents.
From 1 April, a Public Space Protection Order will give police and council officers the power to fine drivers caught sounding horns, blasting loud music, performing stunts, or gathering in ways that disturb the peace. The move follows feedback from residents fed up with the noise and chaos caused by nuisance vehicles in their communities.
Anyone caught breaking the order faces a £100 fixed penalty notice on the spot. If the case goes to court and a conviction is secured, magistrates can impose fines of up to £1,000. The council can also apply for a Criminal Behaviour Order, which restricts where offenders can go or what they can do.
Cllr Darrell Pulk, the council's neighbourhoods lead, said the authority had listened to what residents wanted. "We will be working with our partners at Nottinghamshire Police to target those using their vehicles to cause nuisance, annoyance, harassment, alarm and distress," he said.
Inspector Robert Harrison at Nottinghamshire Police warned drivers: "We will not tolerate this behaviour. You will be fined, and even taken to court."
Residents can report nuisance vehicle behaviour to Nottinghamshire Police or visit www.bassetlaw.gov.uk/nuisance-vehicles-pspo for more information about what the order covers.