The City of Vancouver has received 29 noise complaints so far this year just regarding the use of leaf blowers.
Vancouver residents have expressed frustration over the noise pollution they cause and several efforts have been made to implement bans on certain types. There have been two separate Noise Control By-law amendments (one in 2002 and one in 2004) and a complete ban on the use of leaf blowers in the West End, and yet perhaps more could be done.
"When it comes to noise control in Vancouver, the City strives to maintain an appropriate balance with bylaws that meet the many diverse needs of our residents," a spokesperson for the City told V.I.A. last month and shared that the City conducts regular reviews of its bylaws.
"Given the changing nature of Vancouver and advances in technology, City staff are currently conducting a fulsome review of the Noise By-Law, which includes the provisions for the use of leaf-blowers in the city," they said.
On Tuesday, they released a call out to residents and Vancouver business owners to weigh in on noise control in the city.
"As a part of the first phase of this multi-year project, the City is seeking input from everyone who lives, works or operates a business in Vancouver," reads the statement.
A 10-15 minute survey has been posted to their website asking people to share their thoughts on how Vancouver regulates noise and identify areas of improvement.
The goal is to modernize and enhance the existing Noise Control By-law which was first drafted in 1989 and is signed by then-mayor Gordon Campbell.
"The City supports protecting the public’s right to enjoy public spaces without unreasonable noise nuisances, while also supporting economic and cultural activity and growth," the statement continues. "Feedback received will help identify areas of focus for staff and shape future revisions to the by-law. Results will be included in an update to Council later this year."
How does the bylaw currently work?
Under the current bylaw, commercial vehicles are exempt from noise pollution regulation and businesses are permitted to receive deliveries from lanes, streets, and loading bays 24/7, including holidays.
"We are unable to investigate noise coming from commercial vehicles," says the City's website. "The Noise Bylaw does not regulate noise caused by the operation of these vehicles, including noise from engines, refrigeration, and backup warning signals."
Otherwise, construction, garbage trucks, leaf blowers, domestic animals, and neighbours are all subject to regulation.
Construction
- Construction on private property must be carried out between 7:30 a.m. and 8 p.m. on weekdays (that are not holidays) and between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. on Saturdays (that are not holidays). Construction is not permitted on Sundays.
- Street construction is permitted on Sundays and holidays but only between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. and 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. on weekdays.
Trucks collecting for the landfill or recycling
- Refuse collection must only occur from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends and holidays outside the downtown area. Within the downtown core, refuse collection is permitted from 6 a.m. to midnight weekdays and 10 a.m. to midnight on weekends and holidays.
Carpet cleaning trucks
- Vehicle-mounted carpet cleaning equipment must not be operated before noon or after 5 p.m. on Sundays or holidays.
Leaf blowers
- As of 2023, leaf blowers must only be operated within 50 metres of residential properties between the hours of 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. on weekdays or between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Saturdays. They may not be used on Sundays.
- In addition, only "low noise" leaf blowers are permitted in the city, though the City's website doesn't clarify what falls under that distinction.
- The use of leaf blowers in the West End has been prohibited.
Animals
- Noise from household animals must not cause an unreasonable disturbance.
Neighbours
- Sounds from a radio, television, musical instrument or voice-amplifying equipment must not cause an unreasonable disturbance.
