The Township of Lanark Highlands is reviewing its Noise By-law as part of a broader review of municipal by-law enforcement. This review is intended to improve clarity, assess enforceability, and ensure the by-law reflects current community expectations, within the limits of the Township’s legislative authority.

A staff report outlining the scope of this review and Council’s direction can be viewed here: COR-2025-43 Initiation of Enforcement By-law and Policy Review.
Residents and property owners are invited to complete a short survey to help Council better understand noise-related concerns across the Township and identify areas where the by-law may benefit from clarification or updates.

Take the Survey
Online survey link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WBH9LQ9
Survey open: February 27, 2026 to March 27, 2026 (4 weeks)

Paper Copies Available
Paper copies of the survey are available at the Municipal Office:
Township of Lanark Highlands Municipal Office
75 George Street, Lanark, ON
Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Completed surveys can be returned to the Municipal Office during regular business hours.
If you require an alternate format, please contact the Township.

Why We’re Doing This
The current Noise By-law (By-law 2000-113) sets out general rules and examples of noise that may disturb others. It also operates under a complaint-based enforcement model. Under the current wording, the person who is disturbed by the noise is responsible for starting enforcement by laying a charge through the Provincial Offences Act, in co-operation with the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP).
This review will help Council consider whether updates are needed to improve clarity, consistency, and the overall approach to noise concerns.

What Happens Next
After the survey closes, staff will summarize the results and report back to Council for consideration as part of the Noise By-law review process.

Questions?
For questions about the survey or the Noise By-law review, please contact:
Nicole Guthrie, Clerk
Email: