What this page covers
Rules for noise from commercial vehicles and deliveries in Wrenford.
How the Noise By-law works
Commercial deliveries keep our businesses running, but loud noises can still disturb residents. The Noise By-law 2016-122 covers construction sites, leaf blowers, and outdoor events. It does not cover noise from the operation of commercial vehicles. Our By-law Enforcement officers will not investigate complaints about engine noise, refrigeration units on trucks, or back-up warning alarms.
Idling and loading zone rules
Even though engine noise is a provincial matter, the City does regulate how and where deliveries happen. The Traffic and Parking By-law 2014-075 and the Idling By-law 2020-088 set limits on where commercial vehicles can park to load and unload. You must use designated loading zones or lanes when they are available. If no loading zone is posted, you may use the curb for a short period, but you cannot block driveways, intersections, or crosswalks.
The Idling By-law also limits how long a commercial vehicle can sit with its engine running. Keeping the engine running for more than three minutes while parked is a violation. This rule helps reduce exhaust fumes and unnecessary noise in neighbourhoods. Businesses that deliver goods regularly are expected to plan their routes to minimize idling time near homes and schools.
How to report a problem
If a delivery vehicle is blocking a street, parking illegally, or idling for too long, you can report it to By-law Enforcement. Our officers can issue warnings or tickets for parking and idling violations.
To report a problem:
- Call Service Wrenford at 519-555-0100.
- Email [email protected].
- Visit the Service Wrenford counter at City Hall, 100 Mercer Street.
What we cannot do
Please note that By-law Enforcement cannot issue tickets for back-up alarms, engine noise, or refrigeration unit noise. Those are regulated by the province under the Highway Traffic Act. If a vehicle's back-up alarm is broken or excessively loud, you can report it to the provincial authorities directly. We encourage businesses to maintain their equipment to keep noise levels down.
Business responsibilities
Local businesses are responsible for ensuring their delivery drivers follow these rules. Please remind your staff and contracted drivers to use loading zones and shut off engines when not actively loading or unloading. Working together helps keep our streets safe and our neighbourhoods quiet.