What is Traffic Noise?

Traffic noise is unwanted sound from vehicles operating on roadways. Most traffic noise in Edmonton is produced by tires moving against the pavement. Engine noise can also contribute, especially from large vehicles like buses and transport trucks.

People experience noise differently based on their sensitivity to sound. To help address concerns about traffic noise, the City measures the average sound level on a typical weekday (dBA Leq24) to help evaluate the impact of noise on a community.

Urban Traffic Noise Policy

The Urban Traffic Noise Policy dictates how the City deals with traffic noise mitigation and was last updated in 2013. The revised Urban Traffic Noise Policy was approved at Council in March, 2013.

City Council March 5, 2013 - Edmonton's Urban Traffic Noise Policy Update Item 6.6