New Fernie Noise Regulations establish earlier quiet hours, new construction noise restrictions, and additional rules targeting disruptive vehicle noise under the City of Fernie’s updated Community Standards Bylaw.
The changes establish clearer expectations for residents, businesses, contractors and motorists, with restrictions on several types of disruptive noise at any time of day.
New Quiet Hours: 11 p.m. to 7 a.m.
Under the previous regulations, quiet hours were in effect from midnight to 6:30 a.m.
The updated bylaw establishes quiet hours from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m., seven days a week.
Construction noise is now prohibited between 8 p.m. and 7 a.m. daily.
Vehicle Noise Restrictions
The updated bylaw specifically targets several sources of disruptive vehicle noise, regardless of the time of day.
Prohibited activities include:
Operating vehicles without functioning mufflers or with modified mufflers that increase noise.
Excessive use of vehicle horns.
Squealing tires.
Unattended vehicle alarms.
Use of air horns and engine brakes.
These restrictions apply at all hours, not just during designated quiet periods.
Wildlife Deterrent Devices Also Restricted
The bylaw also prohibits the use of electronic or mechanical devices designed to frighten or deter wildlife.
This introduces another consideration for property owners and businesses using automated wildlife deterrents.
Fines Up to $500
Violations of the updated Community Standards Bylaw can result in fines ranging from $100 to $250, depending on the offence.
Subsequent offences can result in fines of up to $500.
Exemptions for Essential Services
The City has maintained exemptions for essential services and certain approved activities, including:
Emergency response operations.
Avalanche control.
Municipal maintenance, including snow removal and garbage collection.
Emergency repairs.
Approved special events.
The exemptions recognize that some essential municipal services and emergency activities must operate outside regular permitted hours.
Residents can review the updated regulations and learn more about bylaw enforcement through the City of Fernie’s bylaw information page.
