What is a noise bylaw exception permit?
A noise bylaw exception permit allows you to carry out construction or special event activities outside the standard permitted hours under the Noise by-law 2016-122. Wrenford's daily quiet hours are from 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. Standard construction noise is permitted Monday to Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Work is not permitted on Sundays or statutory holidays.
When you need a permit
You must apply for a permit if your activity involves mechanical tools, equipment, or loudspeakers that may be heard beyond your property line during quiet hours or outside the standard construction days. This includes:
- Construction, demolition, or major renovation work
- Stage setup or teardown for special events
- Land clearing, grading, or excavation
- Special events requiring amplification beyond normal levels
Private gatherings, such as weddings, barbeques, or family parties, cannot use a noise exception permit.
How to apply
Submit a Noise bylaw Exception Permit application through the City's online services portal or by visiting Wrenford City Hall. You must submit your application at least 10 business days before your requested exemption date to allow time for review and neighbour notification. For questions, email [email protected].
You will need to provide:
- The exact address and location of the work or event
- The specific dates and times you need an exemption
- A description of the work or event and the equipment or noise sources involved
- The reason the work cannot be completed during standard hours
- A contact name and phone number for the site or event
- Your business or organization name and email address
Fee
The application fee is $150.00. Fees are non-refundable and must be paid before your application is reviewed. If you need to extend an approved permit, you must submit a new application and pay the fee again.
Neighbour notification
If your project is located within one block of a residential area, you are required to distribute a notification letter to all adjacent residents. This letter must be delivered at least three days before the exempt work begins. The letter must include the dates and times of the work, a description of the noise, and a direct contact number for your company so residents can ask questions. You must also send a copy of the notification letter to the By-law Enforcement team with your application.
Review and conditions
Applications are reviewed by a designated committee. We assess the necessity of the exemption, the duration of the noise, the number of residents impacted, and the mitigation steps you will take. If your application is approved, the permit will outline specific conditions you must follow, such as using noise barriers or limiting heavy machinery to certain hours.
The City reserves the right to revoke a permit if noise complaints are received or if conditions are not met. Proceeding with work outside the permitted hours without an approved permit can result in fines of $100.00 for a first offence and $250.00 for a second offence.
Filing a complaint
If you are experiencing noise that violates the by-law, you can file a complaint by calling 311 from inside the city or 519-555-0100 from outside. For emergencies or criminal activity, call 911 or the Wrenford Police Service Headquarters. Please be ready to provide your name, address, and a description of the noise. Anonymous complaints are not accepted.