The City of Calgary’s Traffic Safety Team has begun enforcement this week focused on excessive vehicle noise along 17 Avenue S.W.
In partnership with the Calgary Police Service (CPS), the enforcement and education blitz will run throughout August during the afternoons and evenings.
This initiative addresses ongoing concerns from residents, City Council and local businesses, and helps improve safety and livability along the corridor. Drivers operating excessively loud or modified vehicles can expect increased monitoring, education and fines. The team will also continue regular traffic safety enforcement and address pedestrian safety concerns as needed across the area.
Why reducing vehicle noise matters
Vehicle noise disrupts daily life and affects physical and mental well-being, particularly in busy areas.
Inspector Brad Johnson, head of the Traffic Safety Team, says noisy vehicle complaints continue to be among the top concerns of Calgarians each summer. “Reducing unnecessary vehicle noise creates quieter, safer streets and a more enjoyable environment for everyone who lives, works and visits these areas.”
Examples of common noisy vehicle violations include:
Noisy exhausts and mufflersExcessive engine revvingSquealing tiresRoaring or explosive soundsLoud stereosAmplification equipment Recurring or prolonged vehicle alarms
Additionally, modifying vehicles to increase noise, such as installing aftermarket mufflers or altering exhaust systems, is a violation of the Traffic Safety Act and 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,” says Inspector Johnson. “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 agrees that excessive vehicle noise has a real impact on Calgarians’ quality of life. “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 says. “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.”
Ernie Tsu, owner of Trolley 5 Brewpub, says noisy vehicle enforcement on 17th is also welcomed by local businesses.
“17th Avenue is one of Calgary’s most vibrant destination districts. 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
The Traffic Safety Team was established by City Council in November 2023 with $1.69 million in funding to address growing concerns about road safety and vehicle noise. The team includes eight peace officers, two sergeants and one inspector, and works closely with CPS and other partners to support coordinated, city-wide traffic safety enforcement.
The team began operations in March 2025, focusing on speeding and safety in playground zones. The current shift to noisy vehicle enforcement reflects seasonal trends, as playground zone monitoring decreases in summer while noise complaints increase, particularly in high-complaint areas such as 17 Avenue S.W.
How to report
Residents can report noisy vehicles by calling the Calgary Police Service’s non-emergency line at 403-266-1234 or 311 (phone, app or online). Urgent safety issues should be reported to Calgary Police via 9-1-1. Reports help The City and police identify problem areas and prioritize enforcement efforts.
For more information, visit calgary.ca/trafficsafetyteam.
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