How to Deal with Noisy Neighbours in Ontario: Legal Information and Real Case Outcomes

Sara Santos-Vigneault
Nov 17
4 min read

Written by:

November 17, 2025

Street in Quebec City with autumn trees, historic buildings, and a prominent castle atop a hill. Overcast sky. Empty road with traffic signs. — Pixels, by: Clément Proust

Noise complaints are among the most common sources of residential tension in Ontario. In fact,

a 2023 Research Co. poll found that 54% of Canadians believe their city or town has become noisier over the past year, with 61% of Ontario residents reporting an increase in noise in their area. [1]

While many disputes can be resolved informally, some cases escalate into legal actions. This article provides public legal information about how noise complaints are handled under Ontario law, what steps individuals can take, and how courts have ruled in recent cases. It does not offer legal advice.

What Counts as Excessive Noise?

Municipalities in Ontario enforce local noise bylaws that restrict certain activities based on time of day, location, and volume. These bylaws exist to maintain public peace and allow residents to enjoy their homes without ongoing disruption.

For example:

In Toronto, amplified sound is prohibited from 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. (Chapter 591, Noise Bylaw).
Common restrictions also apply to persistent dog barking, the use of construction equipment during off-hours, and loud parties that disturb neighbours.

It is important to understand that not all noise will violate bylaws. A key consideration is whether the sound is unreasonable, repetitive, and interferes with another person’s ability to enjoy their home. If so, the issue may rise to the level of a "private nuisance," which is a civil legal concept recognizing a person’s right to use their property without unreasonable interference.

What You Can Do Before Taking Legal Action

If you're facing a noisy neighbour, taking early, reasonable steps can often prevent escalation.

Here’s what many residents do:

Document the problemKeep a detailed log noting dates, times, and types of noise. Photographs, videos, or decibel readings (if safe and lawful) can also support your account. CLEO offers plain-language tools to help document neighbour issues.
Speak with your neighbourMany people are unaware that their behaviour is disruptive. A calm conversation—preferably in person or in writing—can resolve issues without involving third parties.
Contact your landlord or condo boardTenants and condo owners have contractual or statutory rights to quiet enjoyment. Property managers and condo boards may issue warnings or take enforcement steps under their governing documents.
File a municipal noise complaintIf the issue continues, you can file a complaint with your city or town’s bylaw enforcement department. Officers may investigate, issue warnings, or ticket repeat offenders. For example, in Toronto, residents can consult the Noise Bylaw (Chapter 591) for enforcement rules.

What Not to Do

No matter how frustrated you may feel, certain reactions can create legal problems of their own:

Retaliating with loud noise, yelling, or confrontation may escalate the situation and could lead to legal consequences, including municipal bylaw enforcement or police involvement.
Trespassing on or damaging another person’s property may result in criminal charges or civil liability.
Exercise caution when making audio or video recordings, as privacy laws in Ontario may prohibit recording private conversations without consent.

Remaining calm and documenting everything is not only smart—it protects your legal position.

When Municipal Complaints Aren’t Enough

If municipal enforcement proves ineffective or inappropriate, other legal avenues may be available:

Small Claims CourtHomeowners or tenants may sue neighbours for damages under nuisance law. A successful claim requires proof that the noise is substantial and unreasonable.
Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB)Tenants may bring applications against landlords who fail to address disturbances caused by other tenants or neighbouring units. Learn more at the official LTB website.
Condominium Authority Tribunal (CAT)Condo owners can file complaints if another resident violates condo rules related to noise. If the condo corporation fails to act, owners may also claim oppression under the Condominium Act. Visit the CAT website for rules and procedures.

Man in a gray shirt holds a megaphone to his ear, wincing in discomfort against a plain background, conveying a sense of loud noise. — Photo by Dany Kurniawan

How Have Ontario Courts Responded to Noise Complaints?

Legal outcomes in noise-related disputes depend on the facts, evidence, and the reasonableness of the parties involved.

Here are some illustrative cases:

Condo Noise Not OppressionIn a 2022 Ontario case, a condo unit owner claimed that ongoing noise constituted oppression under the Condominium Act. The court disagreed, noting that while the noise was unpleasant, it did not meet the legal threshold for oppression. [2]
Surveillance and FloodlightsIn Zeliony v. Dunn (2021, MB), a neighbour’s use of cameras and floodlights—combined with noise—was challenged under nuisance and privacy law. The court considered not only the noise but the cumulative impact on the complainant’s use of their property. [3]
Successful Nuisance ClaimIn Delavalle v. Acciavatti (ON), neighbours endured years of harassment, including yelling, noise, and trespass. The court awarded significant damages, demonstrating that when nuisance is persistent and targeted, legal remedies may be available. [4]
High Threshold for HarmIn Smith v. Inco (ON CA), residents sued over emissions from a nearby industrial site. The court held that in the absence of proven harm or interference, the claim could not succeed. This case highlights that courts require more than minor inconvenience to find in favour of a nuisance plaintiff. [5]

Conclusion

Resolving noise disputes with neighbours can be challenging, but Ontario residents have access to a range of mechanisms to address persistent disturbances. From municipal bylaws to small claims court and tribunal processes, the legal system recognizes that everyone is entitled to reasonable enjoyment of their home.

Whether the noise stems from loud music, barking dogs, or disruptive conduct, success in any legal process depends on careful documentation and a measured, fact-based approach. While not every complaint will lead to formal enforcement or compensation, many can be resolved through respectful dialogue and awareness of one’s rights.

If you are affected by ongoing noise issues, consider reviewing your local bylaws and housing rules, and consult with public legal information resources or licensed professionals if the situation escalates.