Common Types of Noise Concerns in the Township of Muskoka Lakes

Noise Related Concerns by Topic	Description of Limitations of Current Noise Control By-law to Address Concerns
Sources of noise (construction equipment, conveyances, motor vehicles, etc.)	The current by-law has vague definitions and doesn’t cover all sources of noise. Sound regulations pertaining to the discharge of fireworks does not align with the Fireworks By-law.
Prohibited periods of time for noise sources (construction equipment starting too early on weekends)	The current by-law only confines some types of noise to time frames, and time frames have been perceived as both too prohibitive, and not prohibitive enough.
Noise zones	Received delegations for consideration of restructuring established zones, and introducing quiet zones.
Tourist Entertainment Operations (as defined in the by-law: businesses which provide live or recorded music, and serve alcoholic beverages to the public for consumption)	Concerns of current exemptions such as extended hours for music and human noise. May not be consistent with AGCO requirements.
Animal noise (other than dogs and domestic pets)	Received delegations for consideration of noise restrictions on other types of animals, including those within Zoos and Wildlife Sanctuaries.
Daytime noise	Currently there are no restrictions on daytime noise, specifically related to loud human noise and loud music.
Noise in public spaces	Currently there are no restrictions on noise in public spaces such as sidewalks, roads, and for buskers.
Nuisance noise	Currently there are no restrictions on nuisance noises such as amplified sound systems used to deter wildlife and faulty security alarm systems.

Source: Staff Report DSES-2025-034