Free City Of Chilliwack Noise Bylaws

Section 1: Purpose and Scope

1.1 The City of Chilliwack recognizes the importance of maintaining a peaceful and conducive environment for its residents and visitors.

1.2 These bylaws are enacted to regulate and control excessive noise within the city limits to protect the health, safety, and welfare of its inhabitants.

1.3 These bylaws shall apply to all persons, businesses, and activities within the jurisdiction of the City of Chilliwack.

Section 2: Definitions

For these bylaws, the following terms shall have the meanings ascribed to them:

(a) "Noise" shall mean any unwanted sound that causes annoyance, disturbance, or interference with the reasonable enjoyment of property, or detrimentally affects public health or safety.

(b) "Decibel (dB)" shall refer to the unit used to measure the intensity of sound.

(c) "Permissible Noise Levels" shall refer to the maximum allowable sound levels in various zones and during different times as stipulated in these bylaws.

(d) "Quiet Hours" shall mean the designated times during which noise levels must be reduced to ensure minimal disruption to residents.

Section 3: Noise Restrictions

3.1 No person shall make, cause, or permit any noise that exceeds the permissible noise levels as outlined in Schedule A of these bylaws.

3.2 Specific restrictions shall apply to noise generated from construction activities, industrial operations, motor vehicles, and amplified sound systems, among others.

3.3 The operation of power tools, lawnmowers, leaf blowers, and similar equipment shall be restricted to certain hours to minimize disturbance to neighboring properties.

Section 4: Exemptions

4.1 Certain activities and events may be exempt from these noise bylaws upon obtaining a permit from the City of Chilliwack, subject to conditions outlined in Schedule B.

4.2 Exemptions may include but are not limited to public celebrations, cultural events, and emergency works deemed necessary for public safety.

Section 5: Enforcement and Penalties

5.1 Bylaw enforcement officers appointed by the City of Chilliwack shall be responsible for enforcing these noise bylaws.

5.2 Any person found to violate these bylaws shall be subject to fines as specified in Schedule C.

5.3 Repeat offenders may face escalating penalties, including fines and potential legal action.

Section 6: Appeals Process

6.1 Any person who wishes to contest a noise violation notice may do so by following the appeals process outlined in Schedule D.

6.2 Appeals shall be reviewed by an impartial body designated by the City of Chilliwack.

Section 7: Repeal

Any previous noise bylaws or provisions thereof that are inconsistent with the provisions of these bylaws are hereby repealed.

Section 8: Effective Date

8.1 These bylaws shall come into effect on [effective date], upon approval by the City Council of Chilliwack.

Schedule A: Permissible Noise Levels

Schedule B: Exemption Permit Conditions

• Duration and timing of the event

• Measures to mitigate noise impact

• Notification to affected residents

• Compliance with applicable health and safety regulations

Schedule C: Penalty Structure

First Offense: [Amount]

Second Offense: [Amount]

Subsequent Offenses: [Amount]

Schedule D: Appeals Process

• Submit a written appeal within 14 days of receiving the violation notice

• Provide relevant evidence and documentation supporting the appeal

• Appeals shall be reviewed by a panel appointed by the City Council within 30 days

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