Noise at the Georgetown Fairgrounds

BACKGROUND

The Georgetown Fairgrounds is an important recreational space that serves as a hub for community sports and events. Ball diamonds are regularly used by the Halton Hills Minor Baseball Association (HHMBA), Halton Hawks Girls Fastpitch Association (HHGFA), and other organizations for baseball games and practices.

In response to requests from these organizations to play music during the permitted times, the Town of Halton Hills reviewed the regulations on amplified sound at the park. Under the Parks By-law 2013-0062, amplified sound is prohibited in parks unless authorized by Council or by permit. In May 2024, Council approved an exemption, allowing music to be played during games and events, provided it complied with the Town’s Noise By-law limits.

UNDERSTANDING THE NOISE BY-LAW AND PARKS BY-LAW

What is the Noise By-law (2010-0030)?

The Noise By-law 2010-0030 is designed to regulate noise levels within the Town of Halton Hills to protect residents from excessive and disruptive noise.

Under the by-law:

• General Noise Restrictions: No person shall emit or cause the emission of any noise that is likely to disturb the peace and comfort of others.
• Enforcement: Noise complaints are investigated by Municipal Law Enforcement Officers, who may issue warnings, fines, or take other enforcement actions if noise exceeds allowable limits.

Table 6 notes the scheduled levels of sound when measured outside of the business, dwelling house, apartment house, hotel, or other residence inside the Property of another Person.

What is the Parks By-law (2013-0062)?

Parks By-law 2013-0062 governs the use of public parks and recreational spaces in Halton Hills, including rules related to noise, park use, and permitted activities.

Under the by-law:

• Amplified Sound Restriction: The use of loudspeakers, megaphones, or any amplified sound is prohibited unless specifically authorized by Council or a Town-issued permit.

• Permitted Uses: Organizations using Town parks must follow all conditions outlined in their permit. Compliance with noise regulations may be required unless an exemption is granted by Council, similar to those provided for fairs and events.

The Parks By-law helps ensure that recreational spaces are used responsibly, balancing the needs of sports organizations with the quality of life for nearby residents.

SUMMER 2024 AND MONITORING

Since the exemption was granted in May 2024, the Town has continued to receive noise complaints from some residents living near the Georgetown Fairgrounds. These concerns include:

• Amplified announcements and music exceeding allowable decibel levels.
• Music being played outside of scheduled permit times.
• Noise disturbances affecting residents, particularly in the evenings and on weekends.

To address these concerns, Enforcement Staff monitored noise levels throughout the summer of 2024. Noise readings taken at various games showed that while some instances remained within acceptable limits, others exceeded the permitted levels, reaching as high as 69 dB.

WE NEED TO HEAR FROM YOU

To ensure a balanced approach that considers both resident concerns and the needs of sports organizations, the Town is launching a community survey. This survey seeks feedback from residents near the Georgetown Fairgrounds to determine the broader impact of noise and amplified sounds and explore possible solutions moving forward.

PLEASE COMPLETE THE SURVEY BY MARCH 24, 2025