Niagara-on-the-Lake pondering tougher noise bylaw

Proposed changes to Niagara-onthe-Lake’s noise bylaw could result in increased enforcement and also apply to indoor, as well as outdoor, events.

The town’s community and development advisory committee approved staff recommendations Monday for bylaw amendments that would also define noise as “unwanted noise” and allow a bylaw officer to monitor it from the edge of a property line.

The amendments were prompted by complaints from residents about noise at wineries and other commercial establishments that apply for permits for these activities. Coun. Betty Disero had requested that staff report to council on how these events could be better regulated.

In a report to councillors, staff recommended that a contract enforcement officer be hired between May and October, starting next year. They also suggested a public education program with announcements in the media and on the town’s website be undertaken before the 2019 tourist season.

Staff advised that information be sent to businesses that have a history of complaints and that warnings, rather than charges, be initially used. If there were multiple convictions against a venue, staff recommended that the town apply for a court order to prohibit the activity as part of a penalty.

The report concluded that the proposed amendments would provide the town with an effective and cost- efficient mechanism to control noise from special events.

“It is anticipated that after a short period of enforcement, the special event community will become aware that the town is serious about enforcing the noise regulations, and conduct itself accordingly.”

Coun. Jim Collard said he is concerned about the cost of enforcement and noted that “noise is very subjective.”

“Given the wind, sound is always going to travel beyond the property line,” he added.

Council will make a decision about the proposed bylaw amendments next week.

Under the current bylaw, noise from amplified music is permitted up until 11 p.m.