While Oakville might be allowed to make noise a little later, the volume level is overall being turned down.
The town of Oakville has updated its noise regulations, which they say will be "more safe and inclusive for the community."
Oakville Town Council approved four updates to the town's former policies at the latest council meeting this past Monday, Nov. 18, 2024. All of the changes will come into effect in April 2025.
Leading the changes are an extension of sound being allowed outdoors slightly later, with a two hour extension to 7:00 p.m., but the total allowed volume is being brought down by five decibels. Fines for violations are also being increased by nearly 67 per cent.
Here are the four key changes to Oakville's new Noise By-law 2024-079:
- Decibel and time limits: Outdoor noise levels, such as from music and TVs, will be reduced from 55 dBA to 50 dBA, and noise will be allowed between 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m, extended from the previous 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Construction noise fines and fees: First-offence fines for construction noise violations will increase from $300 to $500, with higher penalties for repeat offences. New exemption permits for construction-related noise will also be introduced.
- Provincial alignment: Updates include compliance with the Municipal Act, which now restricts municipalities from regulating noise from delivery services.
- Outdoor music in business improvement areas (BIAs): Businesses in Bronte Village, Downtown Oakville, and Kerr Village BIAs can now play moderate outdoor music on patios until 10:00 p.m. daily.
These updates will come into effect under the new bylaw on Tuesday, April 1, 2025.
Oakville Town Council last discussed changing the noise bylaw at their council meeting this past spring, in late May 2024.
Read more here: Councillors pause new noise bylaw over worries that rules will harm businesses
Council has also called on the provincial government to introduce standardized noise regulations for excessive vehicle noise.
This includes setting decibel limits, increasing fines, and banning the sale of modified exhaust systems, a move approved during the May 27, 2024, council meeting.
Tyler Collins and Kim Arnott contributed additional reporting to this article.