Noise

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City of Edmonton Noise Bylaw information and enforcement for sound which disturbs the peace, comfort or repose of individuals or that affects the safety or health of citizens.

The Community Standards Bylaw regulates noise in the community that results in the disturbance of the peace of another individual. Everyone has the right to not be disturbed by noise.

Most noise is only permitted between 7am-10pm, 7 days a week.

There are some types of noise that fall outside these time restrictions such as construction noise.

Nuisance Neighbourhood Noise

Dog Barking

Complaints involving animals are investigated by the City’s Animal Care and Control Officers. Contact 311 to file a complaint.

The Animal Care and Control Bylaw regulates excessive barking noise caused by dogs.

Learn more about Nuisance Dogs

Garbage Collection

The collection of garbage is not permitted before 7am or after 10pm. The allowable times for waste pick up only apply to properties zoned for residential use or properties adjacent to those zoned for residential use. There is no time restriction for Commercial properties.

Learn more about Waste Collection

Snow Removal

By Machine or Other

It is the responsibility of every property owner to maintain their sidewalks, and keep clear of all snow and ice. Noise created by snow removal falls under general noise and is permitted between 7am-10pm. If an individual(s) are continuously causing a disturbance outside that specified time then please submit a complaint by calling 311.

Learn more about Snow Removal

Grass Cutting

Cutting the grass falls under general noise and is permitted between 7am-10pm. If your neighbour is continuously cutting outside that specified time and the noise is causing a disturbance, then please submit a complaint by calling 311.

Ventilation/Air Conditioning Units

The City will only accept and investigate complaints for units that are not mechanically sound (not running properly). As an industry standard, most residential ventilation/air conditioning units emit a sound that exceeds the decibel limit as outlined in the Community Standards Bylaw .

Parties or Loud People

If you have concerns about loud people or parties please contact the Edmonton Police Service non-emergency complaint line at 780-423-4567.

Construction Activity

Noise from construction work is only permitted:

Monday-Saturday - 7am-9pm
Sunday and Statutory Holidays: 9am-7pm

Construction Projects

Construction projects may be granted a noise exemption permit, allowing noise to exceed the decibel levels listed in the Community Standards Bylaw . In order for construction projects to receive approval, permit applicants must provide justification for the work being done and why there is a need to exceed the decibel limits. Learn more about noise exemption permits.

To learn more about Capital Projects, please visit City-run Projects and Plans.

Vehicle Noise

Vehicles with loud stereos, modified exhaust systems, revving and careless use of a motor vehicle that generates noise that is disturbing to others. The use of engine retarder brakes is another form of nuisance noise that is not allowed under the Community Standards Bylaw.Submit your vehicular noise concern via the online form available at edmontonpolice.ca/trafficconcerns.

Laws and Penalties

Vehicle noise can be addressed and enforced through the following regulations:

The specified penalty amounts for contravening the aforementioned regulations range from $162 - $1000.

Concerts and Festivals

The City of Edmonton recognizes the significant role festivals and events play in the vibrancy of our community. Edmonton offers a wide variety of festivals and events, spanning all artistic genres and sporting activities that contribute to our city's quality of life.

In order for these events to take place, a noise exemption permit may be required, which allows noise levels to exceed the decibel levels listed in the Community Standards Bylaw and also requires a review of noise mitigation strategies to be applied.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is considered excessive?

Excessive noise thresholds will be determined by a number of factors including but not limited to: the impact the noise has on other people in the area, readings from noise monitoring equipment in applicable enforcement locations and officer provided evidence.

What factors does an Officer consider when investigating a noise complaint?

Type, volume, and duration of the sound
Time of day and day of the week
Nature and use of the surrounding area
Decibel level, if measured
Any other relevant factor

What if I have my own Decibel reader, and it states that the noise is at its limit?

Although the Community Standards Bylaw does lay out several decibel limits in regards to noise, officers are not required to take a reading. The sound level is one consideration officers will take into account for their investigation. Decibel readings obtained by Citizens are not reliable and may or may not be considered by the Officer.

What is the best way to address a noise complaint?

In some cases, the fastest resolution may come from contacting the property management company, business complex or construction company involved. If contacting the City in regards to a complaint, please ensure to take detailed notes including the times, locations and types of noise involved. Photos or videos of the noise, source of the noise and distances involved may assist investigators in identifying the offending parties.

What strategies can be used to help deal with noise?

Effective aids in dealing with noise include a white noise machine, a fan or a video with calming music or sounds of nature. Other recommendations include ensuring all windows are closed and using ear plugs.

Contact Us

311 Contact Centre

Online	Contact 311 Online

If you are calling from outside of Edmonton: 780-442-5311

Phone	311
TTY	711