Turn It Down: Calgary ramps up enforcement on excessive vehicle noise

The City of Calgary’s Traffic Safety Team has launched enforcement this week targeting excessive vehicle noise along 17 Avenue S.W.

Running in partnership with the Calgary Police Service throughout August during afternoons and evenings, the blitz combines education and enforcement in response to ongoing concerns from residents, City Council, and local businesses.

Officers will increase monitoring of excessively loud or modified vehicles. Drivers can expect education, monitoring, and fines. The team will also maintain regular traffic safety enforcement and address pedestrian safety concerns in the area as needed.

Excessive vehicle noise disrupts daily life and impacts both physical and mental well-being, especially in busy areas.

“Reducing unnecessary vehicle noise creates quieter, safer streets and a more enjoyable environment for everyone who lives, works and visits these areas,” said Inspector Brad Johnson, head of the Traffic Safety Team. Noise complaints remain among the top concerns for Calgarians each summer.

– Noisy exhausts and mufflers

– Excessive engine revving

– Squealing tires

– Roaring or explosive sounds

– Loud stereos

– Amplification equipment

– Recurring or prolonged vehicle alarms

Modifying vehicles to increase noise, such as installing aftermarket mufflers or altering exhaust systems, also violates the Traffic Safety Act and is subject to penalties.

“Peace officers assess objectionable vehicle noise using a range of factors, including measurements and information such as location, time of day, volume and duration,” Inspector Johnson said. “Drivers are responsible for all noise generated by their vehicles, and violations may result in fines, including $270 for exceeding legal limits and $300 for failing to comply with a noise test.”

Ward 8 Coun. Nathaniel Schmidt said the impact on quality of life is real. “Residents should be able to sit on a patio or sleep with the window open without a vehicle roaring past and drowning everything out,” he said. “This campaign strengthens enforcement and raises awareness, and I want to be clear: it is an important step forward. While there is more work to do, we need every tool available to address this issue, and I will continue supporting efforts to strengthen our ability to tackle excessive vehicle noise in Calgary.”

Local businesses support the initiative. “17th Avenue is one of Calgary’s most vibrant destination districts,” said Ernie Tsu, owner of Trolley 5 Brewpub. “Initiatives that help reduce excessive vehicle noise support local businesses and create a more enjoyable experience for residents and visitors. We’re pleased to see action being taken to address concerns raised by the community.”

*About the Traffic Safety Team*

Established by City Council in November 2023 with $1.69 million in funding, the Traffic Safety Team includes eight peace officers, two sergeants, and one inspector. The team works closely with CPS and other partners on coordinated, city-wide traffic safety enforcement.

Operations began in March 2025 with a focus on speeding and playground zone safety. The shift to noisy vehicle enforcement reflects seasonal trends, as playground monitoring decreases in summer while noise complaints rise, particularly in high-complaint areas like 17 Avenue S.W.

Residents can report noisy vehicles to the Calgary Police Service non-emergency line at 403-266-1234 or to 311 by phone, app, or online. Urgent safety issues should be reported to 9-1-1. Reports help the City and police identify problem areas and prioritize enforcement.

For more information, visit http://calgary.ca/trafficsafetyteam.