No Whistling, No Singing, No Fun? Petrolia’s Old-School Noise Law

Sara Santos-Vigneault
Apr 15
2 min read

In the town of Petrolia, Ontario, a bylaw once prohibited residents from engaging in activities such as yelling, shouting, hooting, whistling, or singing in public spaces. This regulation aimed to maintain a peaceful environment for the town's residents.

The bylaw, specifically Article 3, Section 772.3.6, stated:

"Yelling, shouting, hooting, whistling or singing is prohibited at all times."

This clause was part of a broader framework to minimize public disturbances and manage noise within the town's limits. Such bylaws are common in municipalities seeking to balance community tranquility with individual freedoms.

While the exact date of enactment for this specific clause isn't readily available, it reflects a period when municipalities were actively addressing noise concerns to enhance the quality of life for residents. The bylaw's language suggests an intent to provide authorities with discretion in managing excessive or disruptive noise in public settings.

In 2009, the town council reviewed and amended the bylaw to address concerns about its broad scope. The updated language narrowed the focus to noise related specifically to advertising or selling goods and services, aligning more closely with traditional noise bylaws found in other parts of the province. This change clarified the bylaw's intent, limiting its application and reducing ambiguity.

Municipalities in Ontario have the authority to enact bylaws under the Municipal Act, 2001, to regulate matters within their jurisdiction, including noise control. Such bylaws must be reasonable and not infringe upon rights protected by higher laws, such as the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Overly broad or vague bylaws risk being challenged for violating freedoms of expression.

Petrolia's noise bylaw serves as a case study in municipal governance, highlighting the challenges of drafting regulations that effectively address community concerns without encroaching on individual liberties. The town's subsequent amendment of the bylaw demonstrates a responsive approach to governance, ensuring that laws evolve in tandem with societal expectations and legal standards.