Ottawa Cancels 17 Noise Violation Tickets Amid Protests

UPDATE: The City of Ottawa has just cancelled 17 tickets issued for noise violations during pro-Palestinian protests that took place nearly two years ago. This urgent decision comes as part of a broader review process, with officials confirming the tickets will no longer be pursued in court.

Bylaw Services had issued these tickets under the Noise Bylaw in December 2023 and early 2024, each carrying a hefty fine of $400 for using megaphones and amplifiers in public spaces. The city stated that verbal warnings were provided prior to ticket issuance, but the abrupt cancellation raises questions about the enforcement of the bylaw itself.

In an email to CTV News Ottawa, interim city solicitor Stuart Huxley revealed, “The City prosecutor withdrew 17 tickets today under the Noise Bylaw, each having a set fine of $400. Based on a review of the specific circumstances, the prosecution discontinued proceedings for reasons of public interest and to preserve limited court resources.”

The Ottawa Palestinian Youth Movement celebrated the cancellation as a significant “victory,” arguing that the city had wasted resources pursuing these fines. “For almost two years, the prosecution insisted on pursuing these fines and wasting the city’s resources. They suddenly decided to drop all charges shortly after we filed our legal arguments with the court,” the group stated in a social media post.

Former Ottawa Centre NDP MPP Joel Harden, who was also ticketed under the Noise Bylaw, expressed frustration on X, stating, “Well, that was a waste of public funds.” His ticket was among those withdrawn today.

Despite the cancellation, the Palestinian Youth Movement criticized the city’s refusal to defend the Noise Bylaw in court. They noted, “A victory from a court battle would’ve forced the city to make changes to the bylaw and/or its application.” They emphasized that Bylaw Services could still issue tickets for protesters utilizing megaphones, raising concerns about ongoing restrictions on protest activities.

Huxley confirmed that the city’s Noise Bylaw remains in effect, outlining conditions for sound amplification while prohibiting disturbances to residents. “The city is committed to maintaining an atmosphere conducive to peaceful protests while also respecting community noise levels,” he added.

As this story develops, the implications for future protests and the enforcement of local bylaws will be closely monitored. The cancellation of these tickets highlights the ongoing tensions between civic authorities and activist groups, raising critical questions about free speech and public assembly rights in Ottawa.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing situation as it unfolds.