Noise Limits

It's important that all Spruce Grove residents can work, play, rest, and peacefully enjoy our great community. Updated regulations around noise and decibel limits were introduced in the Community Standards Bylaw, passed by Council on May 27, 2024. These regulations went into effect July 1, 2024.

Prohibited noise

The updated regulations prohibit any person from creating a noise or sound that is reasonably likely to annoy or disturb the peace of another person. To better determine what sounds or noises are likely to disturb the public peace, acceptable decibel levels and limits have been identified for both overnight and daytime hours, as well as residential and non-residential locations.

Decibel limits

	Daytime (7 a.m.-10 p.m.)	Overnight (10 p.m.-7 a.m.)
Residential	65 dB	50 dB
Non-residential	75 dB	60 dB

It's important to remember that posted decibel limits are guidelines and there may be instances where a noise is below the posted decibel limit but is still found to be disturbing the public peace. Likewise, there will be instances where a noise could be measured above the posted decibel limit but is ruled to be acceptable and not in contravention of the bylaw. There are some exceptions to the posted decibel limits, including the operation of community events ex: Canada Day celebration, and City staff or contractors managing the accumulation of snow or ice on roads or City property.

Let's all be good and considerate neighbours by keeping our noise levels in check and ensuring we don't disturb those around us.

Making a complaint

Report a noise complaint by calling Enforcement Services at 780-962-7586 or through the online complaint portal.

Frequently asked questions

What happened to the previous Noise Control Bylaw?

The former Noise Control Bylaw was repealed, and the content was updated and moved into the new Community Standards Bylaw.

How are noise levels measured?

Noise levels are measured at the property line of the property where the noise is being produced. Acceptable and unacceptable levels of noise depend on many factors, including location (residential or non-residential) time of day, day of the week, nature and use of the surrounding area, and if necessary, the decibel level recorded by a City of Spruce Grove Enforcement Officer. It’s important to remember, posted decibel limits are guidelines and there may be instances where a noise is below the posted decibel limit but is still found to be disturbing the public peace. Likewise, there may be times where a noise could be measured above the posted decibel limit but is ruled to be acceptable and not in violation of the bylaw.

Do the updated noise limits apply to vehicle noise?

Yes, as it relates to vehicles located on private property, however noise made or caused by vehicles on public roads is also addressed in the Traffic Bylaw. Enforcement officers will consider both the Community Standards Bylaw and the Traffic Bylaw when determining if a noise made by a vehicle is in violation of noise regulations.

What should I do if I believe a neighbour or business is exceeding noise limits?

The first step is always to talk to the neighbour or business owner, explain the situation, and attempt to find a solution. If that fails, noise complaints can be submitted using the non-emergency complaint portal, or by contacting Enforcement Services at 780-962-7586.

What are the penalties for violating noise limits?

Repeated or egregious violations of noise limits may result in warnings or fines issued by Enforcement Services. Fines range from $500 to $2,000 and are detailed in Schedule A of the Community Standards Bylaw.