The Township of Muskoka Lakes launched a survey to gather public input on proposed amendments to the municipality’s noise control bylaw.
During the Oct. 16 Planning Committee Meeting, Rachel Miners, Chief Municipal Law Enforcement Officer, presented a report to council detailing updates needed to the current bylaw, which has seen minimal amendments since its adoption in 2005.
“The current bylaw has vague definitions and doesn’t cover all sources of noise,” states the report.
According to the report, sound regulations about the discharge of fireworks do not align with the fireworks bylaw.
The report also states there are currently no daytime noise restrictions related to loud human noise and music, noise in public spaces (such as sidewalks and roads), and noise from buskers and animals.
“The noise control bylaw should be designed to uphold the community’s interest that all residents should be able to enjoy their private property without noise that may be excessive, unwarranted, persistent, or otherwise causes disturbances that negatively impact daily life,” states the report.
“From an environmental perspective, undue noise and vibration can have impacts on wildlife and ecosystems, making it crucial to ensure natural soundscapes are preserved.”
The report suggests creating a “point of reception” model, which proposes imposing distances for certain noise types and recommends that staff use decibel readers to measure sound levels at a property boundary to determine compliance. This would allow officers to collect their own evidence instead of relying on witnesses.
“Comprehensive bylaw reviews take time but remain a key part of our ongoing commitment to good governance at the Township,” says Mayor Peter Kelley. “It’s essential that bylaws remain relevant and continue to reflect the needs of everyone who lives, works, and visits Muskoka Lakes.”
Community members are encouraged to fill out the survey before its deadline on Nov. 5.
