Noise Control

Food Primary Establishments (Licensed Restaurants)

Vancouver is privileged to enjoy an abundance of superb restaurants where background music and live entertainment enhances the wonderful experience of fine dining. Every now and then, there are instances when the background music or sound from live entertainment in these restaurants is too loud which disturb the quiet, peace, rest, enjoyment, comfort or convenience of individuals or the public.

Live entertainment in restaurants is prohibited after midnight and before 9:00 am. In addition, the maximum noise or sound from live entertainment in restaurants must not exceed an interior rating of 90 decibels (90 dBA).

Where any sound amplification equipment is used for musical production on any premises, all components of such equipment e.g. outdoor speakers shall be contained within the building as regulated under the License By-law No. 4450 (309kb).

According to the Noise Control By-law No. 6555 (3.58mb), there are different sound levels measured in decibel readings allowed under different conditions. Sound pressure levels are measured with a sound level meter, commonly using the “A” weighting network as it has been shown to relate most closely to a human’s range of hearing. However, one of the more common noise complaints received is excessive bass noise from the music source of these establishments. As such, the “C” weighting network which responds well to low bass sound is used to measure sound levels under specific circumstances in commercial premises.

In instances when such noise related issue arises outside of City of Vancouver working hours, please contact the Vancouver Police Non-Emergency Line at 604.717.3321.

Property Use Inspectors respond to such noise related issues from the public, in particular, when it is a recurring noise concern. Please contact our Noise Line at 3-1-1 or email us at Noise@vancouver.ca to file a complaint.

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