The Municipality of Pictou County is reviewing its noise ordinance, which was last updated in 2009. The review comes after a significant increase in complaints from both urban fringe areas (where subdivisions are expanding near agricultural operations) and from residents near commercial and industrial properties.
Changes under consideration:
- Extending the quiet hours from 11 PM–7 AM to 10 PM–8 AM on weekdays near residential zones
- Creating a formal permit process for construction noise exceptions
- New standards for commercial HVAC equipment and outdoor refrigeration units
- Clearer rules for agricultural operations (who are generally exempt but face growing neighbours)
Balancing act
Council recognizes the tension between protecting residential quiet and allowing local businesses and farms to operate normally. Your input will help strike the right balance.
Input forms are available at the Municipality office at 46 Municipal Drive, Pictou. The comment period closes July 31, 2026. Share your perspective below.