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Construction schedules in Toronto are all affected by a Noise Bylaw (Chapter 591, City of Toronto Municipal Code), which permits construction noise only from Monday to Friday 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Saturdays 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and forbids all construction noise on Sundays and statutory holidays, though some exemptions exist. While the existing bylaw is an important measure used to preserve the peace of residents living in proximity to construction activity and other noise-producing venues like night clubs, it is in need of an update to reflect a number of issues, including conditions created by the ongoing building boom.
The City of Toronto Municipal Licensing and Standards Division recently initiated a review of the law with an aim to standardize noise regulations across all properties to address the interests of stakeholders, and to make the law easier for residents and business owners to comprehend.
Public input is now being sought on key recommendations including;
• specific time periods when noise is prohibited
• limits for amplified sound
• proactive noise mitigation requirements
• increased fines and penalties
• removal of automatic exemptions for pouring of concrete and large crane work
The considered changes will be presented by City staff at an upcoming consultation session, scheduled for Wednesday, February 17 from 6 to 8 PM at Toronto City Hall in Committee Room 1. After the consultation, the next step will see City staff report to the Licensing and Standards Committee on Tuesday, March 8 with recommended bylaw changes.
