Noise and nuisance properties

If you have a question or concern about excessive noise, please contact City Hall at 250-334-4441, email bylaw@courtenay,ca or use our bylaw complaint form.

Noise and nuisance issues can affect the health, safety and enjoyment of neighbourhoods. The City of Courtenay has bylaws in place to reduce excessive noise and address chronic problem properties that create ongoing disturbances or safety concerns.

Excessive noise

Noise is considered excessive if it unreasonably disturbs people’s peace or comfort. Common sources include:

  • Loud music or amplified sound
  • Yelling, shouting or parties
  • Revving engines or car racing
  • Barking dogs or other loud animals
  • Construction or power tools used outside of allowed hours

Permitted noise times

In Courtenay, certain noise is permitted during specific times:

Construction, demolition and excavation

  • Monday to Saturday: 7 a.m. – 10 p.m.
  • Sunday and statutory holidays: 8 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Power tools (including gardening tools)

  • Daily: 7 a.m. – 10 p.m.

What is a nuisance property?

A nuisance property is a place where repeated activity causes harm, disruption or discomfort to others. This may include:

  • Ongoing noise complaints
  • Littering or graffiti
  • Unsightly conditions or fire hazards
  • Odours, smoke or other irritants
  • Unlawful activity
  • Unsafe structures or poor property maintenance

These properties can impact safety, increase enforcement costs and reduce the quality of life in a neighbourhood.

Chronic nuisance properties

The City may intervene when typical enforcement efforts are not effective. Under the Nuisance Abatement and Cost Recovery Bylaw No. 2987, 2019 (PDF), the City can:

  • Order the property owner or occupant to fix the issue
  • Enter the property to carry out the work if the owner does not comply
  • Recover the cost through property taxes or other legal means

This includes staff time, equipment, and contractor fees. Fines may also apply.

Nuisance activities and regulations

The Prevention of Public Nuisances Bylaw No. 2804 [PDF - 49 KB] outlines activities that are prohibited or regulated in Courtenay, including:

  • Creating noise that disturbs others
  • Allowing a property to become unsightly
  • Causing odours, smoke or dust to affect neighbours
  • Keeping animals that repeatedly make noise
  • Using outdoor speakers without permission
  • Placing graffiti on private or public property
  • Allowing stagnant water or rubbish to accumulate

Certain exemptions apply to emergency services, City operations and permitted special events.