Permits - application for noise exemption

The Noise Bylaw provides standards for noise in Toronto. This includes decibel limits and time restrictions for some types of noise.
Noise Exemption Permits can be requested for events or activities that may be in contravention of the Noise Bylaw. Examples include:

  • Special events that feature amplified sound, such as concerts or the use of loudspeakers 
  • Construction noises outside the allowable hours, including continuous concrete pouring and large crane work. 

There are five types of noise exemption permit applications:  

  • Amplified or Instrument Sound 
  • Construction 
  • Continuous Concrete Pour 
  • Large Crane Work 
  • Other Sounds  

To apply for a Noise Exemption permit a completed application form must be completed and submitted by email to the Noise Team by email to NoiseTO@toronto.ca. Forms for the five types of permit applications can be found on the City of Toronto Noise Exemptions website. Applications must be received within 28 calendar days of the start of the activity or late fees may be applied. Please note: a series of events at one location may be submitted on one application form. 

After receiving an application, the City will assess it against the Noise Exemption Permit Screening Criteria to determine which level the application falls under. This level will determine the applicable fee, if supplementary documentation is required, and additional conditions that may apply to the permit. 

Applicants are required to submit their permit at least four weeks in advance of the event or activity but are encouraged to submit an application as soon as preliminary event or activity details are confirmed. Depending on the permit level, applications may take three to four weeks to process, including two weeks with the City Councillor’s Office. Applicants should be aware that for Level 3 permits or more complex applications with site plans or noise mitigation plans, the Councillor’s Office may take longer than two weeks to indicate they have no objection to the application being approved.  

An application for only continuous concrete pouring and large crane work does not require approval from the local City Councillor's Office(s). Instead, this type of application has been delegated to the Executive Director of ML&S or his designate.  

Application Package

To apply for a Noise Exemption Permit, applicants must submit the following: 

  • A completed Noise Exemption Permit application form.  
  • Any additional information the City may require related to the exemption permit application. 

Additional Information

After reviewing an application, the City may require: 

  • For construction exemption permits, a corporate profile report or articles of incorporation (if the applicant is a corporation) 
  • A City of Toronto Parks Letter of Conditions if your event is occurring in a City park 
  • A site plan which includes speaker/equipment placement and direction, lot lines and the distance to the nearest residence 
  • Reasons supporting an exemption permit 
  • Noise mitigation plan which outlines actions to be taken to reduce and mitigate the impact of the noise event 
  • Certified statement from a professional engineer or acoustical consultant for any sound that is not technically or operationally feasible to control. 
  • Any other information or documents that may be required related to the exemption permit application 

How to Apply

  1. Complete the relevant forms and provide all the required information and supporting documentation in the application package. Email the completed application to NoiseTO@toronto.ca. In the email subject line please include the address of where the event will be taking place.
  2. Pay the non-refundable application fees. Applicants will receive an invoice number by email. This invoice can then be paid online at  City of Toronto's Licensing Services Payments.

If you are looking to submit an application in person or by regular mail, please email NoiseTO@toronto.ca or call 416-392-4380 and staff will help make arrangements. 

Further information on the Noise Exemption permit, including application requirements, forms, templates and resources, how to apply, fees, and the approval process can be found by visiting the City of Toronto Noise Exemption website. 

Application Fee

Amplified, Instrument, Construction and Other Sound  

  • Level 1: $110.00 (no tax) 
  • Level 2: $340.00 (no tax) 
  • Level 3: $570.00 (no tax) 

Continuous Concrete Pour: $458.00 (no tax) 
Large Crane Work: $458.00 (no tax) 
Late Application Fee: $85.00 (no tax) 

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