By-law Enforcement

 Noise Complaints

Noise By-law 2024-023 prohibits persons from "emitting, causing or permitting to be emitted noise that at the point of reception, by its volume or nature, is likely to disturb inhabitants".

The By-law Division responds to complaints of excessive, persistent, and recurring noise based on the definition above.

Before submitting a noise complaint, please review the Town's noise regulations:

General Noise Prohibitions

Noise from the following activities is prohibited at any time:

· operation of a loud stereo, electronic device, speakers, and other sound amplification equipment

· persistent barking or noise made by a dog or other animal

· construction equipment in constant operation that is not in good working order

· operation of a vehicle or vehicle with modified or performance exhaust on private property such that excessive exhaust and or engine noise can be heard

· operation of an air conditioner, water pump, heat pump or other mechanical device not in proper working order

· all selling or advertising by shouting or amplified sound

General Noise Exceptions

Noise from the following activities is exempt from the noise regulations:

· snow removal equipment or activities

· Town operations, services, or activities

· essential service or work being conducted on behalf of the Town by a public utility, the County of Dufferin, the provincial or federal government

· special events when a permit is issued in accordance with the Parks and Events By-law

· operation of a generator during an emergency power outage

Construction and Construction Equipment

Noise from construction and the operation of construction equipment is permitted during:

· Monday to Friday - 7:00 am to 7:00 pm

· Saturday and Sunday - 9:00 am to 7:00 pm

· Statutory Holidays - 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Domestic Tools

Noise from the operation of domestic tools is permitted during:

· Monday to Friday - 7:00 am to 9:00 pm

· Saturday and Sunday - 9:00 am to 9:00 pm

· Statutory Holidays - 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Lawn Maintenance Equipment

Noise from the operation of lawn maintenance equipment is permitted during:

· Monday to Saturday 7:00 am to 9:00 pm

· Sunday and Statutory Holidays 9:00 am to 9:00 pm

*Please note: Operation of Construction and Construction Equipment, Domestic Tools and Lawn Maintenance Equipment is permitted outside of the above-mentioned timeframes if they do not emit noise in accordance with the definition in the by-law being “emitting, causing or permitting to be emitted noise that at the point of reception, by its volume or nature, is likely to disturb inhabitants.”

More Information

Any noise resulting from fighting, screaming, shouting, swearing or someone using insulting or obscene language or other disorderly conduct should be reported to the OPP at either:

Non-emergency number at 888-310-1122; or,

For emergencies, call 911.

If noise is coming from an industrial / commercial source or renewable energy project, please contact the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks.

 Reporting a Noise Complaint

Noise Reporting Package and information on its completion can be obtained by clicking here:

Noise Reporting Forms

Please email the completed package to [email protected]. Alternatively, forms can be dropped off in person at Town Hall, or mailed to:

87 Broadway, Orangeville, ON L9W 1K1

What happens after you submit a noise complaint?

A By-law Officer will be assigned to review the information provided and will contact you regarding next steps, as each issue is addressed on a case-by-case basis to make sure reasonable, fair, and appropriate actions are taken. The goal is to resolve the issue and achieve compliance with the By-law.

If there is a possible noise by-law violation, the Officer may investigate, which could result in education, issuance of a Notice of Violation and / or enforcement actions.

If legal action is necessary, you will be required to attend and give evidence in court.