Muskoka Lakes council says something needs to be done when it comes to noisy watercraft.
During the latest Muskoka Lakes council meeting, a unanimous vote passed to offer input to Transport Canada via their Let’s Talk website on vessel engine noise emissions.
Council voted to support option five of the various options listed on the government website.
Option five would update small vessel regulations so both manufacturers and operators must make sure their vessels don’t exceed noise-emission levels.
The considerations listed by Transport Canada include:
- Proposed changes would make sure that new and existing vessels don’t exceed noise-emission levels
- Police could more easily identify whether a vessel complies with the regulations
- Police would need to buy equipment to measure noise levels and train officers on how to use it
- Vessel operators who comply with the current regulations may need to modify their vessels to meet new requirements
Coun. Barb Bridgeman said she has already received complaints about the new boats that are on the lake that are way above the allowable noise level. She said passing the motion would be a strong show of support for organizations like Safe Quiet Lakes and the Decibel Coalition.
Coun. Susan Mazan said she had heard some concerns from owners of older watercraft and clarified that pre-1960 vessels will be exempt.
Coun. Peter Kelly said one of the major problems was people blasting music from their watercraft and he questioned whether the new rules would apply to stereo systems.
Coun. Bridgeman said the restrictions would not apply to stereo systems but would apply to personal watercraft.
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Speedboats are a huge part of muskokas heritage, without them the place wont be the same ..so sad
You don’t need equipment to tell that the through hull exhausts are too loud, especially early Sunday morning