Noise Control
By-Law Enforcement
Town by-laws are in place to maintain a safe and livable environment for all residents. The goal of the By-law Enforcement Department is not to penalize residents, but to achieve compliance with its by-laws through the provision of information and education.
The By-law Enforcement Department is responsible for the investigation and enforcement of a number of Municipal By-laws, including but not limited to, Property Standards, Public Nuisance, Noise, Zoning, Signs, Fireworks, and other regulatory By-laws.
By-law Enforcement officers work Monday to Saturday from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM and can be found out and about in the community, in the streets, and in your neighbourhood, providing education, conducting inspections and issuing warnings or tickets, when necessary.
Noise By-Law No. 2018-032
Excessive noise can cause disruptions and impact the peace and quiet of residents and visitors within the Town of Collingwood.
To resolve these disruptions and ensure all residents and visitors can enjoy our community, By-law Enforcement Officers investigate and enforce the noise control by-law when complaints are received.
For noise complaints of an extreme or ongoing nature, members of the Ontario Provincial Police may respond.
General Noise
Enforcement can occur on any activity that creates noise that is likely to disturb the inhabitants of the Town.
i.e.: yelling, loud music, home occupations and unnecessary noise from engines.
Property Maintenance
The use of Property Maintenance Tools (lawn mowers, electric trimmers, power washers etc.) is restricted to the hours of 7:00AM to 9:00PM daily. However please be mindful of your neighbours.
Events must ensure they do not become a nuisance to nearby residents and adhere to the outdoor speaker prohibition:
- After 9:00PM Sunday to Thursday
- After 11:00PM Friday and Saturday
An application can be submitted to request noise exemptions.
Other Noise
Some other noises are regulated by specific by-laws, such as the discharge of firearms, setting off fireworks and barking dogs.
Construction Noise
Noise due to construction activities is only permitted during the established time periods.
Construction Noise Types
Quick Reference
Domestic or homeowner construction equipment noise
Permitted:
Monday to Friday, 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Saturday/Sunday/Holidays 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Construction Equipment Noise
Permitted:
Monday to Friday 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Saturday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
Prohibited:
Sundays & Holidays
Construction equipment noise from “site alteration” activities on “active development” sites
Permitted:
Monday to Friday 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Prohibited:
Saturday/Sunday/Holidays
Noise Exemption Permits
An application for relief from the Noise By-law can be submitted to the Clerks Department for consideration. Significant requests and events may be referred to Council for approval.
Requests for events on public or private property must submit application at least 30 days prior to the event date.
Please contact the By-law Enforcement Department for application questions or visit our website.
Noise Exemption Permit Application
General Exceptions
Community Events
Throughout the year the Town approves a number of special events such as parades, concerts in parks and festivals. Noise from these events is inevitable however Town organizers will endeavour to mitigate the impact of the event on nearby residents.
Emergencies
This by-law does not apply to any noise resulting from persons, vehicles or machinery during an emergency.
Snow Removal
Given the importance and necessity of clearing and removing snow in a timely manner, there are no noise restrictions in place for snow removal activities on private or public property.
How To Report A Problem
Document Incident(s)
It is important to document the date and time of the noise incident and the duration. It is recommended you keep a log of the noise as this will assist officers in establishing the violation.
File a complaint
Please contact the By-law Enforcement Department at the contact below.
Alternatively, if the noise is serious or continuous you may contact the Ontario Provincial Police.
Attend Court
If all other options have not resolved the noise, you may be asked to attend court to appear as a witness to the noise for the Town’s prosecution.
Contact Information
By-law Enforcement Department
www.collingwood.ca/bylaw-enforcement
Email: bylaw@collingwood.ca
Phone: 705-445-1030 Ext: 3256
Ontario Provincial Police
Non-Emergency: 1 888-310-1122
Local Detachment: 705-445-4321