Updated Noise By-law Takes Effect in Muskoka Lakes on November 1

The updated By-law introduces a prohibition to nuisance noise at any time of day including changes to hours for construction, amplified music, barking dogs and other disruptive sounds. Residents, visitors and businesses are encouraged to review the new regulations.

MUSKOKA LAKES, ON, October 28, 2026 – The Township of Muskoka Lakes (“Township”) is introducing new noise regulations, effective November 1, 2026, following Council's adoption of Noise By-law 2026-069.

Adopted by Council on October 7, 2026, the updated By-law replaces regulations that have been in place since 2005. Shaped by a comprehensive review and community feedback, the changes are intended to address common noise concerns, provide clearer guidelines for residents, visitors and businesses, while also helping to maintain an enjoyable environment for everyone across Muskoka Lakes.

What's Changing? A Few Things to Note.

The updated By-law introduces several changes to how noise is regulated throughout the Township, including:

• Nuisance Noise: The updated By-law includes a broader definition of nuisance noise, prohibiting excessive, repetitive or disruptive sounds that interfere with the enjoyment of neighbouring properties, regardless of the time of day.
• Construction and Equipment Hours: Noise from construction equipment and similar activities is generally permitted between 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. on weekdays, and 9:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. on weekends and holidays. This introduces a later start time and an earlier evening cutoff compared to the previous By-law. Certain site preparation activities, such as deliveries and equipment staging, may begin one hour earlier.
• Barking Dogs and Domestic Animals: Continuous or persistent barking, whining or howling that is clearly audible from another property is prohibited when it exceeds 15 minutes, reduced from 30 minutes under the previous By-law.
• Amplified Music and Sound: Noise from sound systems, including amplified music, and continuous shouting or singing that is clearly audible from another property is prohibited between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., which include private property, restaurants and bars, subject to applicable exemptions.
• Noise Exemption Permits: For individuals and organizations seeking exemptions from certain noise restrictions, permit applications must be submitted online via Cloudpermit at least 90 days in advance of said activity, are subject to Council approval and include a $250 fee to support the review and administration of requests.

Have a Noise Concern?

Noise concerns can be reported to the Township's By-law Enforcement team by:

• Online: Submit a concern at muskokalakes.ca/township-hall/report-a-concern
• Phone: For general noise concerns call 705-765-3156. For short term rental related concerns call 249-487-2299.
• In person: Visit the Township Office at 1 Bailey Street, Port Carling, during regular business hours (8:15 am – 4:00 pm).

Learn More

Residents, visitors and businesses are encouraged to review the updated regulations.

The full Noise By-law 2026-069 is available online, including a Noise Guide outlining prohibited activities and applicable hours.

For more information on the By-law review, community consultation and changes, visit engagemuskokalakes.ca/noise-control-by-law-update.

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For more information regarding this project, please contact:
Rachel Miners
Chief Municipal Law Enforcement Officer
(705) 765-3156 x280
bylaw@muskokalakes.ca

For general, media or accessibility inquires, please contact:
Mia Palantzas
Communications Advisor
(705) 765-3156 x360
communications@muskokalakes.ca

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