Raymond noise bylaw passes readings

Posted on August 8, 2019 by admin

By Stan Ashbee
Westwind Weekly News

According to a recent media release posted on the Town of Raymond’s website, Noise Bylaw 999-12 passed second and final readings on July 16.

This updated noise bylaw, according to the media release, creates clarity around the roles of peace officers, fines and regulations. This outline is meant to give an overview of Bylaw 999-12, and residents are encouraged to review the bylaw in its entirety. The noise — which the bylaw is referring to — is loud, unnecessary and unusual noise or any noise which annoys, disturbs, injures, endangers or distracts from the comfort, repose, healthy, peace or safety of other persons within the limits of the Town of Raymond.

A prominent amendment in this bylaw, which defers from the previous noise bylaw, is it outlines the powers and duties of peace officers.

Residents who would like to file a noise complaint can do so by contacting peace officers directly at 403-715-8513. This number will connect you to the peace officer on duty.

Once the officer receives the complaint, they will be able to investigate, direct any person who is making the noise to stop, and issue violation tickets to those who are not complying with the bylaw.

For residents who do receive a ticket for a noise complaint there will be a tiered fee structure. The structure is as follows:

For a first offence, a minimum fine of $100;
For a second offence (within 12 months of a first offence), a minimum fine of $300; and
For any subsequent offences (within 12 months of a previous offence), a minimum fine of $500.

*For more information on the fee structure and fines please refer to sections 10 and 11 of Bylaw 999-12. The Bylaw covers noises such as:

Motor vehicle noises (all provisions are in line with the Traffic Safety Act and Regulations)
Noise in a Hospital Zone — this zone encompasses an area of town within 150 metres of a hospital.
Ice Cream Trucks — no rings or bells for ice cream before 8 a.m. or after 10 p.m. on weekdays. Additional times available in the bylaw.
Domestic noises — this is in regards to utilizing tools like a lawnmower or snow machine before 6 a.m. or after 10 p.m. on weekdays and before 8 a.m. or after 10 p.m. — where the next day is a Sunday or holiday. 
Animals — barking and howling that disturbs neighbours is considered an offence under this bylaw.

For questions contact the Town Office at 403-752-3322 or visit the town’s website.