Stationary Sources

Stationary sound sources do not normally move from place to place, including the premises of a person, unless the dominant source of sound on those premises is construction or a transportation.

The Noise Bylaw states that no person shall cause or permit the emission of sound from a stationary source that when measured with a sound level meter at a point of reception for:

  • At an outdoor living area, has a sound level (expressed in terms of Leq for a one-hour period) exceeding 50 dB(A) from 7am to 11pm or 45 dB(A) from 11pm to 7am or the applicable sound level limit prescribed in provincial noise pollution control guidelines.
  • Or at an indoor point of reception in a living area has a sound level (expressed in terms of Leq for a one-hour period) exceeding 45 dB(A) from 7am to 11pm or 40 dB(A) from 11pm to 7am or the applicable sound level limit prescribed in provincial noise pollution control guidelines.

Note: the above does not apply to the emission of sound from a stationary source that is in compliance with a provincial environmental compliance approval.

If you have a concern, consider speaking with those responsible for making the noise to give them an opportunity to correct the issue, you may also look into mediation. If this approach does not work, you can submit a service request below, or call 311.

Residential Air Conditioners

Residential air conditioners include heat pumps and are equipment or devices installed in residential home properties to maintain indoor temperature.

The Noise Bylaw states that no person shall cause or permit the emission of sound from a residential air conditioner that when measured with a sound level meter at a point of reception for:

  • At an outdoor living area, has a sound level (expressed in terms of Leq for a one-hour period) exceeding 50 dB(A) from 7am to 11pm or 45 dB(A) from 11pm to 7am.
  • Or at an indoor point of reception in a living area has a sound level (expressed in terms of Leq for a one-hour period) exceeding 45 dB(A) from 7am to 11pm or 40 dB(A) from 11pm to 7am.

If you have a concern, consider speaking with those responsible for making the noise to give them an opportunity to correct the issue, you may also look into mediation. If this approach does not work, you can submit a service request below, or call 311.

For more information, visit the Noise webpage.

Using Mediation in Noise Complaints

The City has partnered with TNG Community Services, an organization that provides free voluntary community mediation services to Toronto residents, as an alternative means to resolving a dispute with the help of neutral mediators. Further information can be found by visiting the TNG Community Services website .