Apply for a noise exemption permit

What is a noise exemption permit?

 A noise exemption permit is a short-term permit that lets you break the rules of the Community Standards Bylaw 32M2023 when it comes to making noise You can use it from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. on weekdays and from 10 p.m. to 9 a.m. on Sundays and holidays.

When should I get a permit?

If your activity or event might be noisy or happen early in the morning or late at night, like movie shoots, construction work, or big events, you should get a noise exemption permit. But remember, private gatherings like weddings or barbecues can't get one.

Who can request a permit?

Any person or group can request a noise exemption permit.

How far in advance do I need to request a permit?

You need to apply for a noise exemption permit at least seven (7) days before your event but no more than thirty (30) days before. If you don't, we can't guarantee that your permit will be approved in time.

What is the cost for a permit?

There is no fee to obtain a noise exemption permit.

What is the maximum length of time I can request for a noise exemption permit?

The maximum length of a noise exemption permit is 14 days.

How will I know my request has been approved?

If your application is accepted, we'll email or mail you the permit. If it's not, we'll talk to you on the phone about why, or we'll send you a letter or email explaining the denial.

Can I get a permit for a major event?

If your application is for a big event with 5,000 or more people, you might need to let the public know about it as directed by the City of Calgary, such as through posting, ads, or direct notices, before we decide.

Can a permit be revoked?

The City of Calgary can revoke a noise exemption permit if the applicant has not taken sufficient measures to minimize the noise, or if conditions stated within the permit have been violated.

Can I be fined if I have a permit?

The City of Calgary can cancel a noise exemption permit if the applicant doesn't do enough to reduce noise or breaks the permit's conditions.

What information do I need before applying for a permit?

When applying for a permit, you need to provide:

  • The address where the activity/event will happen.
  • The dates and times it will start and finish.
  • What kind of activity or event it is.
  • If it's construction, the Building Permit.
  • What's making the noise (like loudspeakers or machinery).
  • How you'll lower the noise and prevent bothering neighbors.
  • Your name and phone number for the permit request.
  • The name and address of your business or organization.
  • An email address to send the permit to.
Apply for a noise exemption permit

Filing a complaint

If you know of a noise bylaw infraction and would like to report it, please call 311 (from within Calgary) or 403-268-CITY (2489) (from outside Calgary), use the 311 app or online below.

File a non-animal noise complaint
File an animal noise complaint

If the noise is caused by a criminal activity, call the Calgary Police Service at 403-266-1234 or if it is related to an emergency, dial 911.

To help us respond faster, please be ready with the following information:

  • Your name and address.
  • A primary and alternate phone number.
  • The address and exact location of the property for which you wish to register a complaint.
  • A brief and concise description of the complaint.

This information will remain confidential. No anonymous complaints will be accepted - you must identify yourself with the 311 service representative.

Learn more about filing a bylaw complaint and the process

Related topics

  • Animal noise

    Animal Owners must supervise their pets when outside so they do not cause a nuisance by their behaviour, including barking. This is covered under the Responsible Pet Ownership Bylaw.

  • Noise on residential properties

    Citizens have the right not to be disturbed by noise and have the responsibility to not make noise that disturbs others.

  • Noise in non-residential developments

    In Calgary, citizens have the right to not be disturbed by noise and have the responsibility to not make noise that disturbs others.

  • Traffic or vehicle noise

    Any vehicle in motion emitting noise measured at 96 decibels or more by a sound pressure level meter is “objectionable noise” and is in contravention of the Traffic Bylaw.

  • Noise at major events

    Major events exceeding permissible noise levels according to Community Standards Bylaw 32M2023 must apply for a noise exemption permit.

  • Noise complaints - FAQ

    Here you will find a list of frequently asked questions (FAQ) about noise complaints:

You may be interested in

​​ ​​
undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null,undefined/null