County of Brant launches Noise Control Bylaw review and invites public input

The County of Brant is reviewing its Noise Control Bylaw and is inviting residents and businesses to share their feedback.

Noise affects daily life across the County. It can impact sleep, well-being, and enjoyment of homes and public spaces. The current bylaw sets rules around when and how certain types of noise are allowed, including restrictions on activities like construction, vehicle idling, and amplified sound.

As the County continues to grow, community needs are changing. More residents, development, and a wider range of events and activities mean there is a need to ensure the bylaw remains clear, balanced, and reflective of how people live today.

Recent conversations around events have highlighted the challenges of balancing community enjoyment with concerns from nearby residents. In some cases, noise complaints and uncertainty around exemptions have raised questions about how noise is managed and how decisions are made.

This review will help the County better address these challenges by creating a more consistent and transparent approach.

At the March 17, 2026, Administration and Operations Committee meeting, Council endorsed moving forward with a new approach to noise regulation. This hybrid model will use qualitative standards for general noise enforcement which means assessing whether noise is likely to disturb others. It also uses quantitative decibel limits for specific, recurring noise issues such as live music and residential air conditioners.

This approach aims to improve fairness, consistency, and enforceability while recognizing the diverse needs of residents, businesses, and community events.

“We hear from residents and businesses that noise can be a challenging issue, with different expectations across the County,” said County of Brant Director of Enforcement and Regulatory Services, Greg Bergeron. “As our community grows and changes, it is important that our bylaw changes with it. This review will help us create clearer rules that are fair, practical, and support both quality of life and a vibrant community.”

Community input will play a key role in shaping the updated bylaw. Residents are encouraged to visit EngageBrant.ca/NoiseBylaw to:

•  Learn about the current bylaw and proposed approach

•  Share their feedback through a survey

•  Participate in quick polls or submit questions and comments to staff

Feedback will help identify common concerns, priorities, and opportunities to improve how noise is managed across the County.

The engagement period is open until May 31, 2026.

To learn more, participate and subscribe for project updates, please visit EngageBrant.ca/NoiseBylaw.