How we created a community around noise pollution
Our very first attempt to collect data about noise in Toronto was the “Not 311” Noise Report. We are happy to say that the report did its job, thanks to our engaged community.
These surveys allowed residents to easily report noise from multiple sources and view their submissions alongside others. With over 12,000 reports collected, we built an independent public dataset that, for the first time, provided a clear picture of noise levels, as well as detailed data on vehicle noise. This data empowered us to confidently engage with the City of Toronto during its Noise Bylaw Review—sending emails, speaking to committees, and advocating for change.
The result? The City now collects all noise reports at all times, vastly improving its dataset. A huge thank you to everyone who logged a point, sent an email, or spoke up—your efforts made this possible.
These surveys are now closed and we are looking forward to building a new set that will serve everyone even better.
“Not 311” Noise Report Map
Below are 2 images of the final dashboards of all noise reports over the life of the survey.
This data was processed and analyzed by using Python and Jupyter notebooks. Then it was enriched by adding in days of the week and weather. This told us on what days and hours noise was most likely to be reported, and in what kind of weather. They confirm most of what we already knew. We are equally likely to be disturbed and make a noise report on clear or overcast days. The time we are most likely to report is from 1 to 2 am. If dry roads occur on weekends, when it is also the loudest, we are more likely to become stressed and make a report.
Another noise survey is on the drawing board, which we expect to be additionally useful as an empowerment and engagement tool, effectively communicating to City Staff and Councillors the extent to which noise pollution is a problem in Toronto.
Thank you to all who participated.