Purpose: The Noise By-law regulates and controls excessive and disruptive noise in the Town of Collingwood.
Noise By-law No. 2018-032
Noise Control and Exemptions
Excessive noise can disrupt the peace and quality of life for residents and visitors in the Town of Collingwood. To help maintain a quiet and respectful community, noise regulations are enforced under the Noise By-law No. 2018-032 by the By-law Services Division.
Municipal Law Enforcement Officers investigate noise complaints and take enforcement action when necessary. For ongoing or extreme noise concerns outside the Town’s operating hours, please contact the Ontario Provincial Police non-emergency line at 1-888-310-1122.
General Noise
The Town’s Noise By-law regulates activities generating noise likely to disturb the Town's inhabitants, such as loud music, yelling, and unnecessary noise from stationary vehicles, like revving engines.
Noise Exemption
Residents and businesses may apply for an exemption from the Noise By-law through the Legislative Services Department. Significant exemption requests, particularly those involving ongoing or prolonged noise, may require Council approval.
For events on public or private property, applications must be submitted at least 30 days before the event date.
Please refer to the application below for instructions and additional details.
Noise Exemption Application & Instructions
Events/Sound Amplification (e.g., Outdoor Speakers)
Outdoor speakers and amplification equipment are prohibited during the following times:
- Sunday to Thursday: 9:00 PM to 8:00 AM
- Friday and Saturday: 11:00 PM to 8:00 AM
All speakers must be turned off during these hours unless an exemption has been granted. Reminder: Applications must be submitted at least 30 days before the event date.
Events/Sound Amplification Noise Exemption Application
Construction Noise
The following timeframes apply to construction-related noise:
Domestic or Homeowner Construction Equipment Noise:
- Monday to Friday: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Saturday/Sunday/Holidays: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
General Construction Equipment Noise:
- Monday to Friday: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Prohibited on Sundays & Holidays
Construction Equipment Noise from "Site Alteration" Activities on "Active" Development" Sites:
- Monday to Friday: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM
- Prohibited on Sundays & Holidays
Construction Noise Exemption Application
Property Maintenance
The use of property maintenance tools (e.g., lawn mowers, electric trimmers, power washers, etc.) is permitted daily from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM. However, please be considerate of your neighbours when using noisy equipment.
Property Maintenance Noise Exemption Application
General Exceptions
Community Events: The Town approves various special events throughout the year, including parades, concerts in Town parks, and festivals. While noise from these events is unavoidable, event organizers take steps to minimize the impact on nearby residents.
Emergencies: The Noise By-law does not apply to noise during emergency situations.
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 Noise Concern
- Document the Incident(s):
Record the date, time, duration, and intensity of the noise.
For recurring issues (e.g., barking dogs), keeping a detailed log of the incidents may be necessary. - File a Complaint:
Submit a complaint through the Public Portal or contact Service Collingwood at 705-445-1030.For serious or persistent noise issues, you can also contact the Ontario Provincial Police non-emergency line at 1-888-310-1122. - Attend Court (as necessary):
If noise issues cannot be resolved, you may be asked to attend court to appear as a witness for the Town’s prosecution.