Noise from Stationary Vehicles
The City of Toronto Noise Bylaw (Chapter 591) sets standards for acceptable noise levels, including decibel limits and time restrictions. Full details can be found on the City's Noise website.
Definition
A motor vehicle includes automobiles, motorcycles, motor-assisted bicycles, and other vehicles powered by engines. It excludes streetcars, power-assisted bicycles, snow vehicles, tractors, and road-building machines.
Regulations
- Vehicle Repairs and Modifications:
Noise from vehicle repairs, rebuilding, modifying, or testing is not permitted: - From 9 p.m. to 7 a.m., or until 9 a.m. on Saturdays, Sundays, and statutory holidays.
- Unnecessary Noise from Stationary Vehicles:
No person shall cause or allow unnecessary, clearly audible noise from a stationary motor vehicle (e.g., persistent horn use, engine revving, or tire squealing). - Excessive Noise Levels from Stationary Vehicles:
Noise from a stationary motor vehicle must not exceed: - 92 dB(A) at idle, or
- 96 dB(A) at engine speeds above idle
(measured 50 cm from the exhaust outlet).
How to Report
If you’re concerned about noise from a stationary vehicle:
- Consider speaking with those responsible, if safe.
- If unresolved, submit a complaint at toronto.ca/311 or call 311.
Noise from Moving Vehicles
What It Includes
Moving motor vehicle noise may include:
- Revving engines
- Speeding
- Loud exhaust systems
- Loud music
- Tire squealing
- Persistent honking
Note: The City does not investigate individual moving vehicle noise complaints. Instead:
- Complaints are used to guide enforcement strategies.
- Only Toronto Police Service (TPS) can stop moving vehicles under the Highway Traffic Act.
How to Report
If you experience persistent and excessive noise from moving vehicles:
- Try to speak to the person responsible (if appropriate).
- File a complaint online at toronto.ca/311 or call 311.
- Include specific details: type of noise, time, location, and frequency.
This data helps identify trends for targeted enforcement efforts in collaboration with Toronto Police Services.
Noise from Car Alarms
What Constitutes a Violation
A car alarm going off occasionally is not enough to be considered an offense. The noise must be both:
- Unreasonable – Disturbs peace or comfort beyond typical household or street sounds.
- Persistent –
- Continuously heard for 10+ minutes, or
- Heard intermittently over an hour or more.
What to Do
- Keep a log: Record dates and times of repeated alarms to help establish a pattern.
- Speak with the vehicle owner, if possible.
- Mediation is available: Free, voluntary community mediation is offered by TNG Community Services.
Reporting a Complaint
If the issue continues:
- Submit a complaint at toronto.ca/311, or
- Call 311 for further assistance.
