1.0    Environmental Noise Control Guidelines for
New Land Use Planning

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This section deals with land use planning of new noise-sensitive development applications in proximity to the following existing or approved potential sources of noise:

• Aircraft Noise
• Surface Transportation Noise:
• Road Traffic and Bus Traffic on Transitways
• Rail Traffic including Light Rail Transit (LRT)

This section also deals with land use planning of stationary sources:

• New noise-sensitive development applications (noise receptors) in proximity to existing or approved stationary sources of noise, and
• New stationary sources of noise (noise generating) in proximity to existing or approved noise-sensitive developments.

In order to avoid duplication of some of the key provincial criteria, reference will be made in these guidelines to specific tables published by the Ministry of the Environment.

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1.1    Purpose

This guideline implements the environmental noise control policies in the Official Plan and is intended for use in planning of new noise sensitive land uses as well as new noise generating land uses.

Development without noise barriers is a first principle in the design of the City, as outlined in section 4.8.8 of the Official Plan (2003).

The technical procedures, sound level criteria and general requirements presented herein are primarily based on the Ontario Ministry of the Environment Publications such as LU-131 and NPC-205 with additions and enhancements by the City of Ottawa.

To achieve effective planning for noise control, the principles described in this document should be implemented by all concerned parties early in the planning process. The purpose is to avoid problems in a proactive manner through input into the land use planning process.

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1.2    Scope

The ENCG define criteria for noise impact assessment of proposed residential or other noise-sensitive land uses as well as new noise generating land uses in the City of Ottawa. The guidelines also specify procedures for the establishment of sound levels on the site of proposed land uses.

The aim is the protection of any land use, whether proposed or existing, from “adverse effects” created by high levels of noise where such use contains noise sensitive activities inside and/or outside of a building on a property.

Responsibilities for achieving the sound level criteria that ensure a comfortable living environment are assigned. Guidance in the form of good planning criteria and procedures is provided for development of noise-sensitive land uses adjacent to existing sources of noise or potential noise-generating land uses adjacent to existing and/or approved noise-sensitive land uses.

The contents of this guideline document are intended to provide direction to the City staff, developers and planning/engineering consultants on the requirements of the City in land use planning where environmental noise is a factor.

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1.2.1   Definition of Noise-Sensitive Land Uses

Noise-sensitive land uses are: residential, institutional, public and recreation in nature. Examples of noise-sensitive land uses include, but are not limited to, campgrounds, hospitals, places of worship, schools, day care facilities, long-term care facilities, libraries, auditoriums, community centres, offices, conference rooms, reading rooms, hotels, motels and some parts of retail stores. Hotels and motels are a special type of noise- sensitive land use since they benefit greatly from convenient access to the airport and patrons tend to have short stays.

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1.2.2    Implementation Overview

The City will implement the details in this Guideline through the review of development applications and planning documents that are submitted to the City under the authority of the Planning Act.

The ENCG are intended to help identify when a noise study is required and will be used to assist in the review and approval process for Official Plan Amendments, zoning by-laws, rezoning, plans of subdivisions, plans of condominiums, site plan approvals and other applications under the Planning Act.

Technical implementation procedures, including details of noise impact assessment methods and control measures are outlined. Acoustic Consultants/Engineers are also required to take into consideration the technical procedures developed by the association of Professional Engineers of Ontario (PEO) “Guideline for Professional Engineers Providing Acoustical Engineering Services in Land-Use Planning”.

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1.2.3    Responsibility of the Proponent

It is the proponent’s/developer's responsibility to ensure that the applicable sound level criteria are met subject to review and approval by the City of Ottawa. These responsibilities include the following:

1. Assessing outdoor and indoor acoustical environments;
2. Determining feasibility of the project including constraints applicable before any project action is taken or construction commitment is made;
3. Ensuring that the required control measures are incorporated in the development.

Consideration of potential noise problems must commence as early as possible in the planning process with the objective of meeting the City of Ottawa noise control policies and guidelines including providing noise attenuation without the use of noise barriers along City roads and bus Transitways and rapid transit corridors.

The required control measures shall be specified in the relevant Development Agreements with the City.

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1.2.4    Summary of Sound Level Criteria For New Land Use Planning

Table 1.1 provides summary of the sound level criteria for new noise-sensitive developments.

Table 1.1 - Summary Of Sound Level Criteria For New Noise Sensitive Developments

(Reference: MOE Table 7 in Technical Publication “Noise Assessment Criteria in Land Use Planning, Requirements, Procedures and Implementation, LU-131, 1997 adapted for the City of Ottawa”)

Notes to Table 1.1:

1. The criterion may be exceeded by an amount not greater than 5 dBA, subject to justification and use of a Warning Clause.
2. Redevelopment of existing residential uses and other sensitive land uses or infilling of residential and other sensitive land uses may be considered above 30 NEF/NEP if it has been demonstrated that there will be no negative impacts on the long term function of the airport. This is subject to implementation of appropriate control measures including a Warning Clause.
3. or Hourly Leq of road traffic, whichever is higher.
4. Whistle noise excluded.
5. Whistle noise included.
6. Other guidelines for offices, hotels, places of worship, stores, etc. are contained in Annex to LU-131.
7. Compliance with the plane-of-window criteria should ensure that the indoor sound levels are acceptable. Special care must be exercised with some sources.

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1.3    Aircraft/ Airport Noise

This section addresses new noise sensitive developments affected by aircraft noise. The intent of the Official Plan policies is to protect noise-sensitive land uses from the adverse effects of aircraft noise.

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1.3.1    Areas Affected by Aircraft Noise

Compatibility of land uses to noise levels in the vicinity of airports is achieved through the implementation of federal guidelines using the Noise Exposure Forecast (NEF) and Noise Exposure Projection (NEP) system. This system uses noise contours to graphically display the expected level of annoyance within specific areas around airports. In order to make these noise contours easy to interpret, and to remove the uncertainty associated with the exact site location of the contours, the Ottawa Airport Operating Influence Zone (AOIZ, a composite of the 30 NEF and NEP contours) and the 25 Line (a composite of the 25 NEF and NEP contours) were developed. The fixed AOIZ lines follow physical features such as roads, creeks, rail lines, or lot lines where possible. The Ottawa Airport Operating Influence Zone is included as Schedule K in the Official Plan. The 25 line and the AOIZ are also shown in Figure 1.1.

Figure 1.1 -
Ottawa Airport Operating Influence Zone (AOIZ) and NEF/NEP Contour Lines (2006)

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1.3.2    Sound Level Criteria for Aircraft Noise

The outdoor noise impact and the indoor sound level criteria and policies due to aircraft are addressed in the Provincial Policy Statement, MOE LU-131 Publication and the City of Ottawa Official Plan.

Outdoor noise impact assessment due to air traffic is established first and separately from the impact of all other sources of noise. Indoor noise impact is established based on the overall impact due to aircraft noise and sources of surface transportation noise.

Aircraft noise assessment is primarily addressed based on the AOIZ and 25 NEF line in Annex 10 of the Official Plan. (Figure 1.1)

The outdoor aircraft noise criterion is used as the first screening tool for accepting (with or without conditions) or rejecting a new development plan for land uses that have noise-sensitive components.

The outdoor and indoor provincial sound level criteria for aircraft/airport noise are outlined in Tables 1.2 and 1.3.

Table 1.2 - Outdoor Aircraft Sound Level Criterion

(Reference: MOE Table 3 in Technical Publication LU-131, 1997)

Table 1.3 - Indoor Aircraft Sound Level Criteria

(Applicable over 24-hour period)

(Reference: MOE Table A-2 in the Annex to Technical Publication LU-131, 1997)

For acceptable indoor aircraft sound level criteria inside other noise-sensitive spaces and uses not referenced in the noted tables, reference should be made to the MOE technical manuals and publications.

Figure 1.2 is an illustrated summary of the outdoor and indoor sound level criteria for aircraft noise in new residential developments.

Figure 1.2 -
Illustrated Outdoor and Indoor Aircraft Noise Sound Level Criteria for New Residential Developments

Within the Ottawa Airport Operating Influence Zone (AOIZ), noise-sensitive development is not permitted, although infill and redevelopment may occur in specific areas within the zone in keeping with the criteria set out in the Official Plan. The boundary of the AOIZ has been drawn to coincide with physical features such as roads, creeks, rail lines, and lot lines where possible.

Figure 1.1 shows the boundaries of the 25 line as mapped along physical features and the Ottawa International Airport Zoning regulations, and illustrates how the two combine to make up the boundary of the Airport Vicinity Development Zone. Noise-sensitive uses are permitted between the 25 line and the boundary of the Ottawa Airport Operating Influence Zone, provided the noise is attenuated. Applications for development between these lines require either a detailed noise study or the application of the Prescribed Measures to Address Airport Noise (Appendix D). Noise-sensitive uses are permitted outside the 25 line without attenuation, although the Ottawa Airport Zoning Regulations may apply.

No new land uses with noise-sensitive outdoor living areas will also be permitted within the 30 NEF/NEP contours of the Carp and Rockcliffe Airports.

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1.3.3    Acoustic Insulation of Buildings

The Acoustic Insulation Factor (AIF) method, prescribed by the MOE or the Sound Transmission Class (STC) method should be used to determine the minimum required building acoustic components. For critical non-residential applications that are very sensitive to noise, such as schools, research laboratories and some types of offices, the use of other detailed technical procedures and actual field measurements are recommended together with the use of other supplementary sound level descriptors such as Lmax levels based on the technical work prepared by NRC Canada. (NEF Validation study in 2 volumes, NRC Canada and IBANA-Calc, NRC Canada).

Table 1.4 contains the applicable MOE indoor noise control requirements for aircraft noise based on the established NEF/NEP for the land use.

Table 1.4 - Indoor Noise Control Requirements for Aircraft Noise

(Reference: MOE Table 5 LU-131: Requirements, Procedures and Implementation, 1997)
¹See Section 1.7.3 for specific wording for Warning Clauses
²The City may waive central air conditioning requirements for city-initiated and /or city approved non-profit housing and instead apply warning clause Type A to be registered on title and included in all lease and rental agreements.

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1.3.4    Noise Control Measures for Aircraft Noise

The foremost noise control procedure for aircraft noise is to select the site of a noise-sensitive land use outside and, preferably further away from the NEF/NEP 30 and AOIZ contour lines.

Other measures include application of architectural design (such as the use of solid building walls, orientation of windows and outdoor living areas as well as room and corridor arrangement), selection of appropriate building components (such as acoustic performance of windows, walls, doors and roofs) and the use of central air conditioning systems.

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1.4    Surface Transportation Noise (Roads, Transitways, Light Rail Transit and Rail Corridors)

Noise from roads, rail lines, rapid-transit corridors and associated stationary sources can affect the quality of life in noise-sensitive land uses. The intent of ENCG is to protect such uses from unacceptable levels of noise by assisting in the planning of noise-sensitive land uses where existing surface transportation noise may have a potential impact on future occupants.

This section applies only to the movement of vehicles within surface transportation corridors only; roads, transit and rail. Transit terminals, yards and the like facilities are to be addressed as stationary sources of noise as outlined in the section to follow.

For the purposes of this guideline, a road includes City roads, Provincial highways, freeways and bus Transitways. Rolling stock on rail lines will be addressed differently depending on the prime moving power employed; diesel engines/locomotives (referred to herein as rail) and Light Rail Transit employing electric power (referred to herein as LRT).

Proposed new noise-sensitive development must evaluate noise impact and submit a noise feasibility and/or detailed noise study if it is within the following proximity to a surface transportation source. Reference should also be made to Transportation Master Plan (TMP) for additional information about the existing and proposed future transportation network.

• 100 meters from the right-of-way of an existing or proposed road; arterial, major collector or bus Transitway
• 250 meters from the right-of-way of an existing or proposed highway, light rail transit corridor or a Secondary Main railway line
• 500 meters from the right-of-way of a freeway or 400-series provincial highway or a Principle Main railway line

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1.4.1    Outdoor Sound Level Criteria

The sound levels from City roads, bus Transitways and rail traffic at the site of a proposed noise sensitive land use shall be established using methods acceptable to the City of Ottawa and in accordance with the guidelines included in this document.

Table 1.5 lists the equivalent sound level (Leq) criterion in designated Outdoor Living Areas. The criterion applies to the day-time period from 07:00 to 23:00 (16 hours) and is considered an acceptable level for outdoor living areas of residential areas and other land uses such as nursing homes, schools, and day care centres.

Table 1.5 - Sound Level Criterion for Outdoor Living Areas Surface Transportation
(Road and Rail)

(Reference MOE Table 1 in Publication LU-131)

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1.4.2    Indoor Sound Level Criteria

The indoor sound level criteria for road and rail noise are outlined in Table.1.6

Table 1.6 - Indoor Sound Level Criteria Surface Transportation

(Reference MOE Table 2 and Table A-1 in Publication LU-131 and its Annex)

Figures 1.3 and 1.4 illustrate conceptually the new residential development criteria for road and rail noise.

Figure 1.3 - Indoor Sound Level Criteria for New Residential Developments Adjacent to Roads, Transitways and LRT

Figure 1.4 - Indoor Sound Level Criteria for New Residential Developments Adjacent to Rail Lines (Diesel Engines/Locomotives)

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1.4.3    Sound Level Criteria For Enclosed Balconies

An enclosed balcony, sometimes referred to as solarium, sunroom, Florida room, etc. may offer in some cases the only available private outdoor amenity space, or at times may be considered as part of an interior space which is sensitive to noise. The enclosed balconies are normally small enclosed rooms with extensive exterior glazing that may or may not be openable. The enclosed balconies pose particular problems with regards to their acoustic insulation and the availability of special glass to meet the criteria since small floor spaces with relatively large glazing require higher degree of acoustic insulation.

In the absence of specific guidelines from the MOE, enclosed balconies, which are thermally insulated and heated, and/or air-conditioned, without door(s) to separate it from other indoor space, should be treated in a similar manner to the indoor space to which it is attached. If this space is not thermally insulated nor heated and/or air-conditioned and separated from other interior spaces by door(s) then it should evaluated as an outdoor living area.

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1.4.4    Noise Impact Assessment

The assessment of road traffic noise impact is evaluated by prediction using statistically averaged road traffic information, normally the AADT (Annual Average Daily Traffic). The prediction method for road traffic noise, recommended by this City, is a method entitled ORNAMENT, Ontario Road Noise Analysis Method for Environment and Transportation, published in 1989 and the primary descriptors are the 16-hour day-time and the 8-hour night-time equivalent sound levels, Leq_16hr and Leq_8hr for City roads and Transitways. The City recommends the use of other enhancements and procedures to the application of the ORNAMENT method as outlined in this guideline.

With respect to surface transportation noise, the prediction methods accepted are outlined in the Ontario Road Noise Analysis Method for Environment and Transportation (ORNAMENT), Sound from Trains Environment Analysis Method (STEAM), or the computerized version STAMSON as updated from time to time. The models are suitable for vehicular traffic on roadways, for bus movements only between stations on Transitways and for rolling stock on rail lines.

For vehicular traffic and/or bus traffic on City roads and/or dedicated bus Transitways, the relevant vehicular, truck and bus traffic data should be entered with their appropriate parameters directly into the STAMSON program (using the “Road” template).

For light rail traffic employing diesel prime moving engines/locomotives, where used as City transit vehicles, the rail traffic data (available from the City) should be entered with their appropriate parameters directly into the STAMSON program (using the “Rail” template). The appropriate parameters from the City includes the “number of trains for time period”, “number of locomotives per train”, “number of cars per train”, and the “speed”.

For light rail traffic (LRT) employing electric prime moving engines, which is used as City transit vehicles, the LRT traffic data (available from the City) should be entered with their appropriate parameter directly into the STAMSON program (using the “RT/Custom” template). The appropriate parameters from the City includes the LRT “emission level for custom type”, the “source height”, “number of vehicles for time period”, and the “speed”.

The report will detail information on all adjustments where applicable. Where there is more than one noise source, the calculation of the combined sound levels is required.

In order to comply with the City ENCG, the predicted sound level is to be assessed for Plane of Window, outdoor and indoor living areas. Where the noise impact exceeds the applicable criteria, warning clauses and mitigation measures such as site planning, architectural design, noise barriers, special building components and/or central air conditioning may be necessary.

The following City guidelines and general procedures should be followed:

1. The outdoor noise impact due to air traffic shall be established separately from the impact due to other sources of noise.
2. The outdoor noise impact due to surface transportation corridors shall be combined using the prescribed procedures.
3. The indoor noise impact shall be assessed separately for road, rail and aircraft noise. The required indoor noise control measures for the multiple source impact are then defined by a combined acoustical insulation parameter; Acoustic Insulation Factor , (AIF) (a logarithmic descriptor) that is evaluated by combining the acoustical insulation parameters determined for each of the sources.
4. For the purposes of noise impact assessment in an Outdoor Living Area, the protected outdoor amenity area is 56 m² for single family dwellings, 46 m² for semi-detached units and 37 m² per unit for row housing. The City may approve the use of smaller areas and/or certain locations subject to site specific applications. For the purposes of noise impact assessment in an Outdoor Living Area, the point of assessment is typically 3 m from the building facade and 1.5 m above ground within the centre of the building or the designated Outdoor Living Area.
5. For the purposes of noise impact assessment in the plane of a bedroom window, the point of assessment is typically 2.5 m for ground floor rooms and 4.5m for second storey rooms (or higher as appropriate for the site specific case) above ground unless the dwelling is a multi-storey building. For multi-storey buildings, noise assessment should be conducted at several levels including the upper levels.
6. The noise impact assessment in the Outdoor Living Area or in the plane of a window shall be performed in terms of a "free-field" sound level which is the sound level not affected by the presence of the building under assessment. The prediction methods ORNAMENT and STEAM yield the "free field" sound level. The presence of major reflecting surfaces near-by the point of reception should be accounted for based on the use of good acoustic engineering practices.
7. When predicting the sound levels due to surface transportation sources, the following points should be adhered to in the analysis and assessment:
1. For improved accuracy, curved road or rail sections, roads with varying grade elevations, 4 and more lane roadways and surface transportation corridors with sound barriers are to be assessed on the basis of multiple segments.
2. Where sound barriers are involved in the analysis and especially where the existing and/or proposed grade elevations change considerably, sound level calculations should be performed at more frequent locations (preferably at every third dwelling unit/lot or less).
3. Every effort should be made to secure reliable grade elevations at the receptors, barrier base and source and to be included in the study. For preliminary noise assessments, it is important to establish the feasibility of noise control measures, where required, based on the existing grade elevations for relatively flat conditions. For sites involving difficult topographies (source, barrier or receptor locations), preliminary grade elevations must be used. It is only in the final stages of the planning approval process that noise assessments be updated to a greater detail based on reasonably accurate proposed grade elevations.
4. The majority of barrier segments, where sound barriers are involved, should be in the acoustic "shadow zone". The use of acoustic "bright zones" is not acceptable except for the remote segments.
5. For roads and bus transit traffic, the "posted speed" limit should be used in calculation of the sound levels. Where it could be demonstrated by any of the concerned parties that the actual operating speed is significantly different than the posted speed limit (i.e. by over 5 km/hour for the 85% percentile of the speed), additional analysis may be included in the study to deal with this change. For LRT, the system speeds shall be obtained from the transit authority in the City.
6. For roads where heavy truck percentage exceed 5% of the total traffic volume and where sound barrier(s) is (are) warranted, additional and supplementary analysis should be included in the study by separating the analysis (sound level calculations) of each vehicle class separately prior to combining the sound levels of all vehicle categories to arrive at the overall sound levels due to all vehicle classes.
7. All receptors (residential and non-residential) that may have an outdoor noise sensitive land use component are to be identified and addressed in the study. The impact on noise-sensitive non-residential buildings that do not include central air conditioning are to be addressed in the noise assessment.

²The preferred method is the AIF method. Detailed alternate procedures using the STC method may be accepted.

In all cases, consideration should be given to future sound levels. For City roads, the ultimate road and traffic data included in Table 1.7 or the data corresponding to the “mature state of development” in the City’s Official Plan should be used for noise prediction purposes based on data provided (or sanctioned) by the City of Ottawa. For rail traffic, bus Transitway/LRT traffic, the railway company or the City transit authority respectively should be consulted and approved data by such agencies are to be used. It should be noted that the railway companies prefer the use of their most up-to-date corridor and traffic data and that data older than one year should be updated when new analyses are performed. In all cases, the City of Ottawa shall be consulted with regards to the choice of traffic data and corridor details.

In the absence of information from the railway companies on the future rail traffic volume, the existing data should be increased at annual rate of 2.5% for a minimum of 15 years after the expected construction completion date.

While the use of the AADT for noise assessments is the common practice, special consideration may be given to situations where the weekend traffic or Summer Average Daily Traffic (SADT) may be more dominant.

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Application of Criteria

Recognizing the variation of human response to transportation noise and, at the same time, the possible difficulties of implementing outdoor noise control measures in some situations, the City may allow a certain flexibility in the sound level criteria in the Outdoor Living Areas only. The application and the allowable flexibility of the criteria are described below.

In case of a marginal excess over the outdoor criteria, the prospective occupants of the new land use should be notified by means of a warning clause. This clause should be included in the Agreements of Purchase and Sale, and incorporated into the relevant Development Agreements which are registered on title of the property.

Table 1.7 - Traffic And Road Parameters To Be Used For Sound Level Predictions

¹ The MOE Vehicle Classification definitions should be used to estimate automobiles, medium trucks and heavy trucks.
² The number of lanes is determined by the future mature state of the roadway.

If the day-time sound level in the Outdoor Living Area Leq16hr is 55 dBA or less and the daytime sound level in the plane of living room windows is Leq_16h 55 dBA or less and the night-time sound level in the plane of bedroom windows is Leq _8hr 50 dBA or less no further assessment is required.

Where it can be clearly demonstrated that it is not technically or economically feasible to achieve the City's outdoor sound level criterion, a tolerance not more than 5 dBA above the stated criteria may be allowed, providing the prospective occupants of the new land use are notified by means of a warning clause. The tolerance, and the accompanying warning clause, is only allowable in conjunction with the sound levels in the Outdoor Living Area; the tolerance is not accepted for the indoor sound level criteria.

It is important to note the fact that the noted marginal excess is neither part of the City’s objective sound level criteria nor an automatic allowance to be granted without justification. It is a requirement from the City that any noise analysis submission to the City by the proponent and/or their consultant that exceed the City’s criteria must be accompanied by a technical submission by the Planning Consultant and/or the Site Engineer to justify the excess(s), if any including analysis of the sound levels for various alternative planning and engineering options (including setbacks, grades and calculated barrier height options in increments of 1 dB from Leq (_16hr) 55 to 60 dBA.

For the impact on the indoor acoustic environment, excesses above the City criteria are not acceptable and the building design requirements shall conform to the City criteria.

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Building Component, Ventilation and Warning Clause Requirements

The technical assessment procedures based on the noted sound level criteria for road and rail noise are outlined in Tables 1.8, 1.9 and 1.10.

Figures 1.5, 1.6, 1.7 and 1.8 illustrate conceptually the central air conditioning system and building component requirements for indoor control of surface transportation noise in new residential development for surface transportation noise.

Table 1.8 - Road And Rail Noise, Day-Time (0700 - 2300) and Night-Time (2300 – 0700) Building Component Requirements

(Reference: MOE Tables 3 and 4 in Publication LU-131: Requirements, Procedures and Implementation)

Table 1.9 - Facade Material Requirement For Rail Noise Only

(Reference MOE Table 6 in Publication LU-131: Requirements, Procedures and Implementation)

Table 1.10 - Combination Of Road And Rail Noise, Day-Time (0700 - 2300)
and Night-Time (2300 – 0700)
Outdoor, Ventilation And Warning Clause Requirements

(Reference MOE Tables 1 and 2 LU-131: Requirements, Procedures and Implementation)
¹ See Section 1.7.3 for specific wording of Warning Clauses
² The City may waive central air conditioning requirements for city-initiated and /or city approved non-profit housing and instead apply warning clause Type A to be registered on title and included in all lease and rental agreements.

Figure 1.5 - Central Air Conditioning System Requirement for Indoor Control of Surface Transportation Noise

Figure 1.6 - Ventilation System Requirement for Indoor Control of Surface Transportation Noise

Figure 1.7 - Building Component and Requirement for Indoor Control of Road, Transitway and LRT Noise

Figure 1.8 - Building Component and Requirement for Indoor Control of Rail (Diesel Engines) Noise

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1.4.5    Proposed Noise-Sensitive Development Adjacent to Future City Surface Transportation Corridors

Where a noise-sensitive development for which noise control measures will be required precedes the construction of a potential surface transportation corridor, the City may require as a condition of approval that:

1. A noise barrier be constructed within the development to mitigate noise originating from the proposed surface transportation corridor. Traffic and corridor data used for noise prediction shall be in accordance with the City’s Environmental Noise Control Guideline and the design of a barrier also in accordance with the Guidelines.
2. The authority that is responsible for the preparation of the necessary corridor expansion plans and/or the Environmental Assessment submission, where required under the authority of the Environmental Assessment Act, should incorporate the necessary mitigation measures based on final and detailed corridor configuration; if known.
3. In all cases the proponent of the new development should be responsible for the implementation of all other noise control measures within the noise sensitive buildings including building acoustical requirements, notice(s) on title and the use of air conditioning.
4. All technical details related to criteria, predictions and implementation apply to those stated throughout this document.
5. Sufficient lands may need to be conveyed to the City at no cost for construction of a noise barrier, where required for noise control.

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1.4.6    Noise Control Measures for Surface Transportation Noise

The term “noise control measures” refers to administrative and physical actions which can be taken to achieve compatibility of various land uses for environmental noise. Noise control measures cover broad land use planning principles as well as the use of engineering solutions to achieve the stated sound level objectives of the City.

In general, the specific objective of noise control measures is to reduce, rather than eliminate the noise affecting outdoor and/or indoor noise-sensitive receptor locations as specified in this guideline document.

The choice of appropriate noise control measures for a specific development application depends on several factors such as the stage of the planning approval desired, significance of the sound level relative to the sound level criteria, size of the parcel of land, nature of the source(s) of noise, other planning and zoning considerations/restrictions, type of development, the degree of public acceptance of possible mitigation measures and other relevant economic aspects of the development.

Where the use of a sound barrier wall is approved by the City for a new noise-sensitive development, the City Standard for Noise Barriers in Appendix C shall be used.

The following paragraphs summarize available noise control measures of which, one or more, may be required to meet the City’s sound level criteria for new noise-sensitive land use developments affected by surface transportation.

1. Site Planning Techniques
• The use of distance setback
• Spatial separation such as with the insertion of noise-insensitive land uses and buffers between the noise-sensitive receptors and the transportation corridors of concern.
• Orientation of buildings and Outdoor Living Areas such as with the use of “service roads” and innovative building layouts.
2. Architectural Design
• The use of solid building walls
• Placement of windows, balconies and court yards
• Building height
• Room and corridor arrangement
3. Selection of Appropriate Building Components
• Acoustic treatment of walls and roof
• Selection of windows and doors
• Installation of appropriate building ventilation or central cooling system to allow windows and doors to be kept closed during the warm season.
• Installation of sound reducing fittings in ducts and opening to the outside.
4. Sound Barriers
• Use of favourable topographic features
• Use of intervening structures to act as sound barriers.

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1.5    Stationary Sources of Noise

This section provides guidelines for implementation of the policies for stationary sources of noise in Section 4.8.8 of the Official Plan.

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1.5.1    Definition of a Stationary Source of Noise

The Official Plan defines stationary sources of noise as follows:

“Stationary sources of noise are defined as all sources of sound and vibration, whether fixed or mobile, that exist or operate on a premises, property or facility, the combined sound and vibration levels of which are emitted beyond the property boundary of the premises, property or facility, unless the source(s) is (are) due to construction. Stationary source noise can be generated by individual sources or multiple sources. Individual noise sources include, but are not limited to, generators, fans or commercial air conditioners. Facilities usually comprise multiple sources of noise and are considered as a single stationary source of noise for purposes of noise study, assessment and mitigation. Facilities that are considered as stationary sources of noise include, for example, industrial facilities, car dealerships, motor vehicle maintenance and repair facilities, snow disposal sites, car washes, motor vehicle racing facilities and transit terminals. Sources of noise excluded from the definition of stationary sources, in accordance with MOE guidelines include: construction activities, gas stations, music and people noise and retail facilities such as convenience stores where goods are delivered infrequently.”

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1.5.2    Typical Stationary Sources of Noise

Stationary sources of noise exist, for the most part, in commercial and industrial land uses (including aggregate resources) and to a lesser extent in connection with high density residential and institutional land uses. The other application involving stationary sources of noise is in connection with surface transportation facilities such as near major transit terminals/ facilities and railway yards.

Sources considered by the City of Ottawa as stationary sources are either individual/multiple sources or facilities comprising one or more sources of noise.

Individual sources of noise include, for example, generators, fans or commercial air conditioners. Facilities that are considered as stationary sources of noise include, for example, industrial facilities, car dealerships, motor vehicle maintenance and repair facilities, snow disposal sites, car washes, motor vehicle racing facilities and transit terminals. For a typical list of sources, reference may be made to the MOE NPC-205 and LU-131 documents.

Several sources of noise are usually excluded from the stationary sources in accordance with the MOE guidelines such as construction activities, gas stations and infrequent delivery of goods to convenient stores. For a typical list of exempted sources, the MOE technical Publications LU-131 and NPC-205 should be consulted in consultation with the Planning and Growth Management Department.

Industrial stationary sources of noise and noise-sensitive land uses are normally incompatible unless measures are taken to control environmental noise within the new noise development and/or from the industrial use depending on the application. Achieving compatibility depends on a range of factors. Two factors have significant importance: the nature of the facility emitting the noise; the distance between the two land uses.

To prevent or minimize encroachment of sensitive land uses upon facilities producing stationary sources of noise, the Ministry of the Environment developed guideline documents D-1 and D-6 (References 10 and 11) which provide three generic classifications of such facilities depending on the nature of their emission levels; Class I produces the least impact and Class III produces the highest impact. For typical facility types, reference should be made to MOE documents D-1 and D-6.

For initial assessment purposes only, the City recommends the use of the “potential influence area/distance” in guideline D-6 as a tool for requiring noise control studies be undertaken prior to review and approval of stationary sources of noise.

Figure 1.9 illustrates graphically the potential influence area/distance for the three land use classifications.

Figure 1.9 - Schematic Illustration of the Potential Influence Area/Distance for Stationary Sources of Noise

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1.5.3    Sound Level Criteria for Stationary Sources of Noise

Tables 1.11 and 1.12 list the maximum noise level criteria for noise from stationary sources.

For land use planning purposes, the City of Ottawa will apply the stationary noise sources criteria developed by the MOE for the two distinct, but overlapping applications as follows:

• Planning of new noise-sensitive receptors in proximity to existing stationary sources of noise (MOE criteria in Publication LU-131 and its two supplementary documents; the Annex and the Requirements).
• Planning of new noise-generating facilities/sources in proximity to existing noise-sensitive receptors (MOE criteria in Publications NPC-205 and NPC-232).

Figure 1.10 illustrates the sound level criteria for stationary sources of noise and Figures 1.11 and 1.12 illustrate conceptually the applicable criteria.

Figure 1.10 - Sound Level Criteria for Stationary Sources

Figure 1.11 - Stationary Sources Sound Level Criteria for New Residential Development

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1.5.4    Noise Impact Assessment for Planning of New Noise Sensitive Land Uses in Proximity to Existing Stationary Sources

The following summarize the City requirements, procedures and criteria to be followed when making a submission:

• The proponent shall submit a noise study report consistent with the MOE Publication LU-131, and its two supplementary documents; the Annex and the Requirements.
• The applicable sound level criteria are summarized in Table 1.11.
• The noise study report shall clearly note any variations or exceptions to the MOE stationary sources criteria.

It is also a City requirement that a suitably worded warning clause be applied to new land uses within the potential influence area where noise due to the stationary source may become audible at times (warning clause Type E in Table 1.13).

Figure 1.12 - Stationary Sources Sound Level Criteria When Related to the Ambient of New Residential Development

Table 1.11 - Sound Level Criteria For New Noise-Sensitive Land Uses In Proximity To Existing Stationary Sources

¹ Or the corresponding minimum hourly background/ambient sound level (Leq _1hr) due to traffic, which ever is higher.

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1.5.5    Noise Impact Assessment for Planning of New Potential Sources of Stationary Noise in Proximity to Existing or City Approved Noise-Sensitive Land Uses

The following summarize the City requirements, procedures and criteria to be followed when making a submission for developments that are new potential sources of noise:

• The proponent shall submit a noise study report consistent with MOE Publications NPC-205 “Sound Level Limits for Stationary Sources in Class 1 & 2 Areas (Urban),” or NPC-232 “Sound Level Limits for Stationary Sources in Class 3 Areas (Rural)”.
• The noise study report format shall be consistent with MOE Publication NPC-233 “Information To Be Submitted for Approval of Stationary Sources of Sound”.
• The noise study report shall clearly note any variations or exceptions to the MOE stationary sources criteria.
• The details of the applicable sound level criteria are contained in MOE Publications NPC-205 and NPC-232. Table 1.12 is a summary of the applicable sound level criteria.

Table 1.12 - Sound Level Criteria For New Potential Sources Of Stationary Noise In Proximity To Existing Or City Approved Noise-Sensitive Land Uses

¹ Or the corresponding minimum hourly background/ambient sound level (Leq _1hr) due to traffic, whichever is higher
² In Class 3 Areas, reference should also be made to the MOE sound level criteria in NPC-232, expressed in L90 _1hr dBA

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1.5.6    New Expansion or Alteration of Stationary Sources (Certificate of Approval (Air) Process)

Noise impacts from proposed equipment and facilities (new expanded or altered) are also considered by the MOE in the course of assessing applications for Certificate of Approval (AIR) in accordance with Section 9 of the Environmental Protection Act.

Prior to commissioning new stationary noise sources, the MOE may require an acoustic audit in connection with granting of the Certificate of Approval (C of A).

If a C of A is not required by the MOE for a new stationary source, then the City may either request that the MOE Acoustic Audit procedures be followed by the Proponent, or alternatively, the City may request the Proponent to follow the certification procedures of final construction as summarized in Section 5.3.5 of this document.

Figure 1.13 illustrates the MOE Certificate of Approval (AIR) process.

Figure 1.13 - Certificate of Approval (Air) Process

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1.5.7    Typical Noise Control Measures for Stationary Sources

The objective is to demonstrate the presence of numerous alternatives that may be suitable for such applications in terms of one or more of the stated generalized options.

It is important to realize the fact that noise control is a system that may involve noise control at the “source”, “transmission path” and/or at “the receptor”.

Noise Control At The Source

• Equipment Noise Control:
• Selection of quieter equipment
• Substitution of processes and/or equipment to perform a similar function
• Proper maintenance of equipment
• Equipment Sound Barriers:
• Full or partial acoustic enclosures
• Full sound barrier around equipment
• Partial sound barrier around certain sides of the equipment
• Specific sound baffles
• Equipment Fittings:
• Acoustic louvers
• Silencers
• Mufflers
• Acoustic hoods/plenums
• Equipment Lagging/Wrapping:
• Pipe, duct or tank acoustic wrapping/lagging
• Use of vibration damping products/li>
• Sound Absorbing Materials Within Enclosures
• Vibration Isolation of some equipment
• Building Acoustic Treatment:
• Closed delivery doors
• Reduced size of windows and openings
• Improving wall sound transmission loss rating
• Reverberation (echo) control inside the structure
• Location Factors:
• Re-orientation of noise sources
• Increased distance setback
• Administrative Noise Controls:
• Limiting hours of operation
• Schedule of deliveries
• Maintaining specific actions
• Prohibiting certain equipment/vehicles from specific locations
• Public relations and community meetings

Noise Control within the Transmission Path

• Placement of an intervening compatible land use that is compatible with the source and the receptor
• Use of Sound Barriers
• Natural sound barrier (a topographic change in elevation)
• Deliberately created sound barriers:
• Walls
• Berms
• Walls + Berms

Noise Control at the Receptor

• Distance setback
• Innovative House Designs:
• Limiting heights of buildings
• Use of blank walls or walls adjacent to non-habitable rooms
• Internal layouts of buildings
• Site Planning techniques
• Sound Barriers:
• Walls
• Berms
• Walls + Berms
• Double sound barriers (Source + Receptor)

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1.5.8    City Standard For Noise Barriers

Where the use of a sound barrier wall is approved by the City for a new noise-sensitive development, the City Standard for Noise Barriers in Appendix C shall be used.

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1.6    Noise Study Requirements

Feasibility and/or detailed noise impact studies are required for both new noise-sensitive developments and new noise-generating sources if noise is expected to be of a concern.

Section 4.8.8 of the City of Ottawa Official Plan (2003) identifies situations where noise is expected to be a potential problem and the conditions for when a noise study is required.

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1.6.1    Noise Control Feasibility Study

The objective of a noise feasibility study is to identify if noise will be an issue for the proposed development and to explore possible alternatives if noise levels are expected to be near or exceed the City objectives. A feasibility study may be in the form of a brief or extensive report depending on complexity of project. Feasibility studies should be submitted with the initial development application as early in the process as possible if the proposal meets one or more of the following conditions:

• The proposed development meets the Official Plan criteria for a required noise study.
• Sound levels affecting the proposed development are expected to likely exceed the City noise objectives.
• Stationary noise sources are within close proximity and are of a concern.
• The proposed development generates noise which will likely affect existing or city approved noise-sensitive development

building orientations, site planning techniques, building components and ventilation requirements. Noise barriers should only be considered as a last resort. The feasibility study should also identify potential land use conflicts and determine the practicality and economic feasibility of physical noise control measures in conjunction with the selected site design. It should also provide a clear direction regarding the need for additional studies and the timing associated with the implementation of required control measures. Outlining the various options, alternatives and preferred alternatives are the main objectives.

Detailed studies may be submitted in place of feasibility studies if adequate information is available to prepare the necessary details (grading plans, accurate distance set-backs, location of buildings, traffic volumes and classifications, etc.) while also respecting the need to submit the study as early as possible in the planning process.

The following is a list of required information to be included in a noise control feasibility study:

• Scale plan identifying the locations of all sources of noise within 500m.
• A copy of the draft plan (for subdivision applications) or other relevant plans for Site Plan, OPA and re-zoning.
• Discussion of alternative noise control measures and justification for their use.
• Alternative noise control measures, preferred solution or strategies to be included or addressed.
• Typical building components specifications for noise control (such as type of wall and windows).
• Approximate sound barrier heights, where required.
• Existing grade elevations used (in difficult topographies, preliminary grade elevations should be used).
• Traffic to be based on City (or responsible agency) approved corridor and traffic data. Attach details to the study.
• Clearly written recommendations and implementation procedures.
• To be signed and sealed by a Professional Engineer/Acoustical Consultant.

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1.6.2    Noise Control Detailed Study

The objective of a detailed noise study is to assess in more detail and precision the impact of all noise sources, including both exterior and interior noise, and to determine the appropriate layout, design and required control measures. Typical conditions under which a detailed noise study is required include:

• The proposed development meets the Official Plan criteria for a required noise study.
• The previously approved noise control feasibility study did not include detailed information such as final grade elevations, source/receptor distances, accurate traffic volumes and classifications, etc.
• The detailed study may be a condition of the feasibility study approval.
• Sound levels affecting the proposed development are still expected to exceed the City noise objectives.
• The development layout changed after the feasibility study was approved.

The detailed noise study must include the details of the noise assessment methodologies and calculations, and should summarize the results and recommendations for all outdoor and indoor noise control measures.

For noise assessments, the most economical and preferred technical approach is to rely on the use of noise prediction models (i.e. STAMSON) for both existing and future scenarios. In certain situations, however, the preferred approach may include a combination of actual field sound measurements supplemented by calculations and prediction procedures. Examples of special cases requiring the use of supplementary noise measurements include difficult site and/or topographic conditions, the presence of numerous acoustical obstructions/barriers, unusual vehicular traffic conditions and presence of other extraneous sources of noise that cannot be predicted.

Sound measurement procedures, where found necessary, should be conducted in accordance with the technical procedures and practices developed by the Ontario Ministry of the Environment. The details for using actual field measurements, including the procedures, instrumentation, results and analysis should be documented in the applicable detailed noise study report.

If noise barriers or berms are recommended, then cross sections at reasonable vertical and horizontal scales should be provided to clearly illustrate the proposed berm and/or wall configuration in relation to existing and future grades as indicated by the proposed Lot Grading Plan.

Cross sections and/or the data in the report must include all information required to calculate the expected sound levels (such as the location and elevation of the noise source(s), receiver(s), building(s), noise barrier(s), berm(s), berm slopes, sidewalks, ditches, roadway and/or railway elevations and centerlines and property lines).

All detailed noise studies must be signed and sealed by a Professional Engineer who has a valid Certificate of Authorization from the Professional Engineers of Ontario as well as Professional Liability Insurance (for errors and omissions).

The following is a list of minimum required information to be included in a detailed noise control study:

• Scale plan identifying the locations of all sources of noise within 500m, or the prescribed area of influence.
• A copy of the previously approved draft plan, site plan, etc.
• The proposed grading plan submitted for engineering approval incorporating the necessary outdoor noise control features details.
• The necessary details related to the project based on more accurate details (e.g. distances, grade elevations, development layout, etc.).
• All required noise control measures.
• Since the development plans would be registered based on site specific details (final approval and registration of a Draft Plan of Subdivision or through a Site Plan Agreement), it is essential that the detailed noise control study identify the details of the preferred alternative noise control measures; if any (subject to mutual approval by the proponent and the City). Optional or alternative solutions will not be accepted at this stage.
• Building component acoustic specifications based on the best available project drawings.
• All lots, blocks, units, locations requiring noise control measures named and referenced in the study.
• Specific recommendations for each lot, block, unit, etc. documented in clear concise summary form for implementation purposes.
• Traffic to be based on City (or responsible agency) approved corridor and traffic data. Attach details to the study.
• Warning clauses using City standard wording
• Clearly written recommendations and implementation procedures.
• Costs for mitigation measures for financial securities (sound barriers, special provisions for building components, air conditioning, etc.). The Acoustic Consultant may rely on the expertise of other specialist consultants for determining reasonable cost estimates for the various specified mitigation measures.
• A scale plan illustrating the location of the subject property in relation to the 25 and 30 NEF/NEP and the AOIZ if aircraft noise is of concern.

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1.7    Implementation Process for New Noise-Sensitive Developments

The environmental noise control implementation process for new noise-sensitive developments starts early in the planning process (pre-consultation phase) with a noise control feasibility study, which should precede all planning applications (re-zoning, Official Plan Amendments) and draft plans for subdivisions or conceptual site plans. This helps to identify if noise is an issue that needs to be addressed before the building design and site layout are evaluated. If noise is a potential problem, then a detailed noise study must be submitted to clear the conditions of the noise feasibility study and possible re-zoning conditions prior to Site Plan or Subdivision approval. For approval, the development agreement must reference all noise control measures as well as the maintenance of these measures (such as barrier up-keep) to ensure that mitigation is achieved and sustainable. The financial securities must also account for noise control measures to ensure that noise attenuation is implemented. These steps are required for building permit approval and will also be subject to inspection of final construction for certification and release of funds.

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1.7.1    Noise Study Requirements for New Noise-Sensitive Developments

A noise study must be submitted for proposed new noise sensitive developments if noise is considered a potential problem and/or the development meets the sound level criteria listed in this document or as specified by the City of Ottawa Official Plan.

A noise control feasibility study is required prior to submitting planning related applications such as re-zoning and/or Official Plan Amendments and prior to draft plans for subdivisions or conceptual site plans.

If a detailed noise control study is required, it must clearly indicate expected noise levels consistent with the objectives of this document for development approval.

Section 1.6 provides specific information regarding the requirements for both noise feasibility and detailed studies.

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1.7.2    Development Agreements for New Noise-Sensitive Developments

All types of development, regardless of noise impact, are required to enter into various development agreements with the City. If noise is a concern that warrants mitigation, then the specific noise attenuation measures will be included into the development agreement. In addition, the relevant warning clauses and the future maintenance of noise control measures will also be included in the development agreement, as summarized below.

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1.7.3    Warning Clauses

Warning clauses are required to be incorporated into development agreements and registered on title (and also included in Agreements of Purchase and Sale) for noise-sensitive developments if noise levels are expected to exceed the applicable sound level criteria. Furthermore, notice must also be given to all prospective tenants prior to entering into a lease or purchase and sale agreement.

The following warning clauses in Table 1.13 may be used individually or in combination as appropriate for the case (modifications to the warning clauses may be implemented by the City for site specific cases). Additional information about warning clauses is available from the Ministry of the Environment document Procedure D-6-4, Appendix D: MCCR Bulletin No. 91003, "Environmental Warning/Restrictions".

Table 1.13 - Warning Types Clauses

¹These warnings are standard clauses from the MOE and are subject to change at the discretion of the City, Airport Authority, CN or other applicable agencies, as required. Additional warnings pertaining to aircraft noise are also included in Appendix D.

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1.7.4    Maintenance of Noise Control Measures - New Noise-Sensitive Developments

One of the planned noise control measures that may require future maintenance is noise barriers and other associated aspects that include the noise wall, base berm, the necessary ground slopes and drainage features near the noise barrier.

Other planned noise control features that must be maintained and not tampered with by the owner or occupant(s) of the development are architectural and mechanical elements and all other noise control measures included in the noise study reports.

Therefore, the development agreement should contain provisions to require the owner to maintain the range of noise control measures, as approved by the City in a good and safe condition to the satisfaction of the City. The agreement should also include the necessary procedures for repairs and remedies at the owner’s expense in accordance with the City’s property standards practices.

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1.7.5    Financial Securities for New Noise-Sensitive Developments

In order to secure the fulfillment of the required internal and external noise control measures, the City requires Letters of Credit to cover the actual implementation of the necessary work. The proponent will be required, prior to receipt of final approval, to enter into a Financial Agreement with the City and to deposit the necessary Letters of Credit satisfactory to the Solicitor and the Treasurer of the City. The principal sum of the Letter of Credit required will be in an amount equal to One Hundred Percent (100%) of the total estimated cost of the internal and external noise control measures as certified by the proponent’s Consulting Engineer(s) and to the satisfaction of the City.

The conditions for the Letter of Credit release will be directly connected with the Consultant’s certification process for exterior and interior noise mitigation features.

Letters of Credit for New Noise-Sensitive Developments Affected by Transportation Noise

Noise control measures to be covered by the Letter of Credit may include, but are not limited to the following:

• Berm construction and/or specific modifications to the Grading Plan(s) to achieve the stipulated elevation(s).
• Noise barrier wall construction.
• Installation of the necessary duct work to accommodate central air conditioning.
• Installation of the central air conditioning system, as required.
• Installation of special building components to meet specific acoustic criteria including windows, doors and walls.

It is important to note that complementary work to the above noted noise control measures, which is essential to the completion of the development, should also be covered by other financial guarantee(s) with the City, such as the grade elevations, landscaping, building locations, outdoor amenity areas, and drainage.

For noise-sensitive developments affected by stationary sources of noise where the noise control measures are to be implemented within the development itself, the above provisions will also apply.

Letters of Credit for New Noise-Sensitive Developments Affected by Stationary Noise

Where noise control measures are planned at the sources of noise, the development proponent will be firstly required to enter into a separate legal agreement with the owner(s) of the source to undertake such external work at the source and secondly, the Letter of Credit should also cover all the additional costs to undertake such noise control measures as designed by an acoustical consultant which may include, but are not limited to the following:

• Construction of sound barriers or enclosures to surround the noisy equipment, parts of the site, etc.
• Control of equipment noise
• Noise control devices and contraptions (silencers, mufflers, acoustic louvers, acoustic hoods, …etc.)
• Noise control materials (lagging, absorptive treatment, etc.)
• Building acoustic treatment
• Relocation of noise sources

In lieu of the Letter(s) of Credit for control of stationary sources of noise only, the developer may produce a Certificate of Approval under Section 9 of the Environmental Protection Act together with a certified copy of the legal agreement with the owner(s) of the source to undertake such work. The City may reserve its right to also receive a Letter of Credit to cover the costs of such work.

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1.7.6    Building Permit Requirements for New Noise-Sensitive Developments

For building permit approval, the agreed upon acoustical objectives such as (dBA and AIF levels) need to be translated into actual building components, physical measurements, dimensions, and specific materials. The following points assist with finalizing the plans for building permit approval for noise-sensitive developments:

• To refer to specific building permit drawings by number and date.
• The use of acoustic terminology such as sound levels, decibels, STC, etc. is not accepted. Instead, reference to specific building components is required, such as thickness of glazing, material specifications, details of walls and doors.
• To cover all matters of concern as approved in the Detailed Noise Control Study and the approved Subdivision or Site Plans. Some points of concern include:
• Building layout/orientation
• Glazing/windows, etc.
• Air conditioning requirements, where permitted (location and sound rating)
• Non-conditional approval and certification of the relevant plans and drawings.
• To be prepared and signed by a Professional Engineer/Acoustical Consultant.
• Clearly written recommendations and implementation procedures to be included.
• May include supplementary construction details, e.g. window/glazing specifications

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1.7.7    Certification of Final Construction and Release of Funds for New Noise-Sensitive Developments

Upon completion of the project, the acoustical consultant will visit the site, inspect the installed noise control measures and satisfy himself/herself that the installed work conforms to the noise study recommendations as approved earlier by the City and/or the approval agencies and authorities. The acoustical consultant should then prepare a letter to the Construction Services Manager of the City stating that he/she certifies acoustical compliance with all requirements in the approved noise study and the applicable conditions in the development agreement.

The Certification Letter must be unconditional and address all requirements (not just part of it) as well as all relevant information such as the project name, lot numbers, building identification, drawing numbers, noise study report number, dates of relevant documents and in particular reference to the documents used for building permits and site grading applications. The Certification Letter(s) must bear the certification stamp (Professional Engineer’s stamp) and be signed by the acoustical consultant.

The Certification Letter(s) shall then be submitted to the City with a request to release the relevant parts of the Letter of Credit. The amount of the Letter of Credit may be reduced or completely released by the City subject to their satisfaction of the submission, based on the following:

• Site visits, inspection and testing of final construction.
• Reference to previously approved Detailed Noise Control Studies and the approved Subdivision or Site Plans. Some points of concern include:
• Site Plan concept
• Building layout/orientation
• Glazing/windows, etc.
• Air conditioning requirements, where permitted (location and sound rating)
• Non-conditional final approval for release for occupancy.
• To be prepared and signed by a Professional Engineer/Acoustic Consultant

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1.8    Implementation Process for New Noise-Generating Sources

The environmental noise control implementation process for new noise-generating developments starts early in the planning process (pre-consultation phase) with a noise control feasibility study, which should precede all planning applications (re-zoning, Official Plan Amendments) and draft plans for subdivisions or conceptual site plans. This helps to identify if noise is an issue that needs to be addressed before the building design, equipment, and site layout are evaluated. If noise is a concern, then a detailed noise study must be submitted to the City and to the Ministry of Environment, as per the conditions of the MOE Certificate of Approval (Air) process. This process may also include an acoustic audit. For approval, the development agreement must reference all noise control measures (silencers, mufflers, etc) as well as the maintenance of these measures to ensure that mitigation is achieved and sustained. The financial securities must also account for noise control measures to ensure that noise attenuation is implemented. These steps are required for building permit approval and will also be subject to inspection of final construction for certification and release of funds.

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1.8.1    Noise Control Study Requirements for New Noise-Generating Sources

A noise study must be submitted for proposed new noise-generating developments if noise is considered a concern and/or the development meets the applicable sound level criteria in this document or as specified by the City of Ottawa Official Plan.

A noise control feasibility study is required prior to submitting planning related applications such as re-zoning and/or Official Plan Amendments and prior to draft conceptual site plans.

If a detailed noise control study is required, it must clearly indicate expected noise levels consistent with the objectives of this document for development approval. It must also be submitted to the Ministry of Environment for a Certificate of Approval (Air) in accordance with Section 9 of the Environmental Protection Act.

Section 1.6 of this document provides specific information regarding the requirements for both noise feasibility and detailed studies.

The details related to the technical requirements for noise studies are also included in the MOE documents LU-131, NPC-205, NPC-233 and NPC-134.

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1.8.2    Certification of Approval (Air) Process for New Noise-Generating Sources

Noise impacts from proposed equipment and facilities are considered by the MOE in the course of assessing applications for Certificates of Approval (Air) in accordance with Section 9 of the Environmental Protection Act.

Prior to commissioning new stationary noise sources the MOE may require an acoustic audit in connection with the granting of the Certificate of Approval (Air).

Section 1.5.6 provides additional information regarding the Certificate of Approval (Air) process.

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1.8.3    Acoustic Audits for New Noise-Generating Sources

Where an “Acoustic Audit” is specified as a condition in an approved Certificate of Approval (Air) issued by the MOE under Section 9 of the EPA for a new Stationary Source, the proponent and their Acoustical Consultant will be required to prepare the necessary “Acoustic Audit” in accordance with the MOE procedures outlined in their publications NPC-205 and NPC-232.

If a C of A is not required by the MOE for a new Stationary Source, then the City may either request that the MOE Acoustic Audit procedures be followed by the proponent, or alternatively, the City may request the proponent to follow the certification procedures of final construction as summarized in this document.

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1.8.4    Development Agreements for New Noise- Generating Developments

All types of development, regardless of noise impact, are required to enter into various development agreements with the City. If noise is a concern that warrants mitigation, then the specific noise attenuation measures will be included into the development agreement (such as hours of operation, maximum number of trucks, truck routes, silencers, mufflers and fans). In addition, future maintenance of noise control measures will also be included in the development agreement, as summarized below.

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1.8.5    Maintenance of Noise Control Measures for New Noise- Generating Developments

The development agreement should contain provisions to require the owner to maintain the range of noise control measures, as approved by the City in a good and safe condition to the satisfaction of the City. The agreement should also include the necessary procedures for repairs and remedies at the owner’s expense in accordance with the City’s property standards practices and the MOE Certificate of Approval (Air) process.

Planned noise control features that must be maintained and not tampered with by the owner or occupant(s) of the development are architectural and mechanical elements (such as silencers, mufflers and specific fans) and all other noise control measures and operations included in the noise study reports.

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1.8.6    Financial Securities for New Noise- Generating Developments

The City requires Letters of Credit to cover the implementation of the required noise control measures. The proponent of the new stationary source will be required, prior to receipt of final approval, to enter into a Financial Agreement with the City and to deposit the necessary Letters of Credit satisfactory to the Solicitor and the Treasurer of the City. The principal sum of the Letter of Credit required will be in an amount equal to One Hundred Percent (100%) of the total estimated cost of the noise control measures as certified by the proponent’s Consulting Engineer(s) and to the satisfaction of the City.

The conditions for the Letter of Credit release will be directly connected with the Consultant’s certification process for noise mitigation features.

The proponent of a land use project involving a potential stationary source of noise that may affect existing near-by noise-sensitive land uses will be required to provide the City with Letter(s) of Credit to ensure the implementation of the required noise control measures prior to receipt of final approval or approval to commence construction.

The Letter of Credit should cover all the costs to undertake the necessary noise control measures as designed by an acoustical consultant which may include, but are not limited to the following:

• Construction of sound barriers or enclosures to surround the noisy equipment or parts of the site.
• Control of equipment noise
• Noise control devices and contraptions (such as silencers, mufflers, acoustic louvers and acoustic hoods)
• Noise control materials (such as acoustic lagging and absorptive treatment)
• Building acoustic treatment
• Relocation of noise source(s)

In lieu of the Letter(s) of Credit for control of stationary sources of noise, the proponent may produce a Certificate of Approval under Section 9 of the Environmental Protection Act to undertake such work. The City may reserve its right to also receive a Letter of Credit to cover the costs of such work.

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1.8.7    Building Permit Requirements for New Noise-Generating Sources

For building permit approval, the agreed upon acoustical objectives need to be translated into actual building components, physical measurements, dimensions, and specific materials. The following points assist with finalizing the plans for building permit approval for noise-generating sources.

• To refer to specific building permit drawings by number and date (This may include the Architectural and Mechanical drawings).
• The use of acoustic terminology such as sound levels, decibels, STC, etc. is not acceptable. Instead reference to specific building components and equipment specifications is required, such as thickness of glazing, material specifications, details of walls, doors, maximum size of equipment, equipment make and model, location of equipment, ductwork, and openings.
• To cover all matters of concern as approved in the Detailed Noise Control Study and the approved Site Plan. Some points of concern include:
• Building layout/orientation
• Mechanical and Electrical requirements (location, rating, etc)
• Non-conditional approval and certification of the relevant plans and drawings.
• To be prepared and signed by a Professional Engineer/Acoustical Consultant.
• Clearly written recommendations and implementation procedures to be included.
• May include supplementary construction details.

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1.8.8    Certification of Final Construction and Release of Funds for new Noise-Generating Sources

Upon completion of the project, the acoustical consultant will visit the site, inspect the installed noise control measures and satisfy himself/herself that the installed work conforms to the noise study recommendations as approved earlier by the City and/or the approval agencies and authorities (MOE). The Acoustical Consultant should then prepare a letter to the Construction Services Manager of the City stating that he/she certifies acoustical compliance with all requirements in the approved noise study and the applicable conditions in the development agreement.

The Certification Letter must be unconditional and address all requirements (not just part of it) as well as all relevant information such as the project name, lot numbers, building identification, drawing numbers, noise study report number, dates of relevant documents and in particular reference to the documents used for building permits and site grading applications. The Certification Letter(s) must bear the certification stamp (Professional Engineer’s stamp) and be signed by the acoustical consultant.

The Certification Letter(s) shall then be submitted to the City with a request to release the relevant parts of the Letter of Credit. The amount of the Letter of Credit may be reduced or completely released by the City subject to their satisfaction of the submission, based on the following:

• To be based on actual site visits, inspection, testing, including taking actual sound level readings at the receptors.
• To refer to previously approved Detailed Noise Control Studies, Site Plan and the relevant approved Certification Letters (C of A)
• Non-conditional final approval for release for occupancy.
• To be prepared and signed by a Professional Engineer/Acoustic Consultant.

It is not the objective of this Section to provide a complete list of noise control measures that are suitable for stationary sources of noise, nor how to design such measures.

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