What counts as a noise complaint
The City uses Noise By-law 2016-122 to keep noise levels reasonable for everyone. A noise complaint happens when sound from a property, vehicle, or event disturbs the peace or makes it hard to sleep, work, or enjoy your home.
Examples include:
- Loud music or parties that carry past your property line
- Construction or power tool use outside allowed hours
- Vehicles modified to make excessive exhaust noise
- Repeated barking or howling from pets (these are also covered under Report a barking dog)
- Loud fireworks or noisemakers in residential areas
Allowed hours for construction and power tools are Monday to Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. There is no construction noise allowed on Sundays or statutory holidays.
How to report it
You can report a noise disturbance in three ways:
- Use the Report a by-law infraction form online. This is the fastest way and gives you a file number to track.
- Call 311 during business hours, or 519-555-0100 after hours.
- Call 9-1-1 only if the noise is part of an immediate emergency or involves a threat to safety.
Please share the address, a description of the noise, and when it happens. If you can, note the date and time of each occurrence. Officers rely on these details to respond effectively.
What happens after you report it
A By-law Officer reviews your report and decides on the best way to handle it. In many cases, the first step is a friendly phone call or a door knock to let the neighbour know about the noise. Most people adjust their habits once they are aware of the impact.
If the noise continues, the officer may visit in person to measure the sound or speak with those involved. You may be asked to keep a simple noise log to help prove a pattern. The City aims to resolve most issues within a few days, but complex cases can take longer.
Fines and violations
Ignoring a by-law warning can lead to a ticket. Under Noise By-law 2016-122, fines start at $250.00 for a first offence and go up to $750.00 for repeat violations. You can pay a ticket online, by phone, or in person at the Provincial Offences Court. If you disagree with a ticket, you have the right to request a hearing before a Justice of the Peace.
Need help?
If you are struggling with a neighbour or need advice on how to lower noise in your home, reach out to the By-law Enforcement team. They can connect you with community resources or mediation services.
Contact:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: 519-555-0100
- Office hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Location: City Hall