Filing a leaf blower complaint to 311
Leaf blower noise during daytime hours is exempt from enforcement.
“The Noise Bylaw includes decibel limits and time restrictions for some types of noise. We encourage residents to exercise a reasonable degree of tolerance and to review the bylaw regulations by type of noise prior to submitting a service request. If you have a concern, consider speaking with those responsible for making the noise to give them an opportunity to correct the issue. If you are a tenant, please speak to your landlord first...” City of Toronto
Noise Complaints
Toronto’s Noise Bylaw permits the use of gas-powered leaf blower during the day.
Weekdays: 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Saturdays, Sundays, and statutory holidays: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Leaf blower noise during daytime hours is exempt from enforcement. Complaints are only investigated if the equipment is used during bylaw-restricted hours, and even then, enforcement is based on the frequency of the noise rather than a one time intensity. Once a complaint is filed, it can take seven to ten days for a bylaw enforcement officer to respond.
To complain residents are directed to contact 311@toronto.ca, They are advised to photograph the contractor’s truck and, if possible, record a video of the incident.
This places the burden of enforcement on residents rather than the City. The result is that neighbourhoods are left unprotected. Homeowners and tenants are told to tolerate noise levels during the day that would otherwise violate the City’s own health-based noise standards.
In practice, Toronto’s bylaw shields polluting, high-noise machines more than it protects people.
If Toronto is serious about protecting public health, reducing noise pollution, and meeting its climate commitments, this enforcement loophole must be closed.
Submit written complaints to; mlsfeedback@toronto.ca
