Construction noise permit

Apply for a permit to run noisy construction work outside standard hours or for high-decibel activities.

Road reconstruction on an urban street: excavator, traffic cones, a paid-duty flagger, new curbs being formed

Standard construction hours

Under Noise By-law 2016-122, you can only run noisy construction work during these times:

  • Monday to Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
  • Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
  • Sunday and statutory holidays: no construction noise is allowed.

When you need a permit

You must apply for a construction noise permit if:

  • You need to work outside the standard hours listed above.
  • Your project involves demolition, pile driving, or heavy machinery that creates noise beyond normal construction levels.
  • You are working near a school, hospital, or residential area and expect complaints.

How to apply

Submit your application through the Engineering Standards online portal or drop a completed form at the Civic Operations Centre (455 Railside Road, Wrenford, ON N4Q 3K7). You will need to provide a site plan, a list of equipment, and a noise mitigation plan. We will review your request to make sure your project does not unfairly disturb neighbours.

Fees and processing

The application fee is $250.00. Please pay online when you submit your form. Processing takes up to five business days. We will contact you by email once your permit is approved or if we need more information.

Permit conditions

If your permit is approved, you must follow these rules:

  • Install sound barriers or temporary walls around noisy equipment.
  • Use modern, well-maintained machinery with working mufflers.
  • Post the permit number and contact information at the job site entrance.
  • Stop work immediately if a by-law officer orders you to for excessive noise.

For questions about noise rules or your application, contact the Engineering Standards team at 519-555-0100 or email [email protected].