What Are the Noise Bylaws in Canadian Cities? Your Rights as a Tenant or Homeowner

Sara Santos-Vigneault
Apr 21
2 min read

Noise complaints are one of the most common municipal issues across Canada. Whether it’s loud music, construction, or barking dogs, municipalities regulate noise through local bylaws. These laws help balance the need for peace and quiet with everyday urban living. Here’s what you should know.

What Are Noise Bylaws?

Noise bylaws are local rules created by municipal governments to regulate sound levels in residential, commercial, and industrial areas. They often set quiet hours, prohibit specific noise types, and outline enforcement procedures.

For example, many cities prohibit amplified music, engine noise, or construction activities during late-night and early-morning hours. Bylaws may also regulate the volume and duration of the noise.

A woman working on her laptop, enjoying a moment with her dog.

Examples from Canadian Cities

Toronto, ONToronto’s Municipal Code Chapter 591 sets quiet hours from 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. on weekdays, and until 9:00 a.m. on weekends. Construction noise is only permitted during specified daytime hours.

Vancouver, BCVancouver's Noise Control Bylaw limits sound levels depending on the zone (residential vs. commercial) and time of day. Construction is generally allowed between 7:30 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. on weekdays.

Calgary, ABCalgary's Community Standards Bylaw prohibits noise that is "likely to disturb" others, particularly between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. The bylaw includes specific decibel limits for certain sources of noise.

How Are Noise Complaints Enforced?

Enforcement usually begins with a complaint to the city bylaw office. Officers may investigate by visiting the location and measuring noise levels. If a violation is confirmed, options include:

Issuing a warning
Fining the responsible party
Requiring noise mitigation measures

Repeat violations may lead to larger penalties or legal action in provincial court.

Rights of Tenants vs. Homeowners

Tenants have the right to "quiet enjoyment" of their rental property. If a neighbour’s noise affects your living conditions, report the issue to your landlord and the local bylaw office. Landlords have a duty to address disruptive noise from other tenants under most provincial residential tenancy laws.

Homeowners can contact municipal bylaw officers directly. If noise continues despite fines or warnings, homeowners may consider civil remedies such as small claims court.

If You Receive a Noise Complaint

If you're the subject of a complaint:

Stay calm and review your local noise bylaw.
Cooperate with bylaw officers.
Take steps to reduce the noise if possible (e.g., lowering music volume, changing the time of activity).

You can ask for clarification if you're unsure why a complaint was made or if you believe it was in error.

Noise bylaws vary by city, but they all aim to ensure that residents can enjoy their homes in peace. Whether you're making a complaint or responding to one, knowing your local rules is key.