Calgary’s noise bylaws restrict sound to certain levels during the daytime and at night. A noise exemption permit temporarily allows a production to film with relaxed noise restrictions.

A few things that may require a noise exemption permit include explosives, music on outdoor speakers, helicopters, construction sound, or vehicle noise.

When you select ‘Noise Exemption’ on your Film Services Application, our Film Friendly team will apply for the permit on your behalf.  

• If loud noise is expected on site between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. Monday to Saturday or between 10 p.m. and 9 a.m. on Sundays and statutory holidays, a noise exemption permit must be in place. While a permit for excessive noise is needed during these times, it’s a good idea to let us know about loud noise during daytime hours. We’ll make sure we’ve got the Bylaw details covered.  
• A noise exemption permit is needed when filming in commercial, industrial, and non-residential areas of the downtown core. That said, our approval process is increasingly Film Friendly and we strive to be flexible when considering exemption requests.  
  

Once a noise exemption permit has been approved, information about the expected noise and timelines should be included in your Dear Neighbour Letter to surrounding residents and/or businesses.

See our full fee schedule