HGC has completed thousands of noise and vibration impact studies and assessments for hundreds of clients over the past three decades. We work with planners, developers, builders, property managers, and owners, and we understand how noise and vibration approvals fit into the planning and development process.

When planning a new sensitive land use—such as a residential subdivision or a mid-rise, high-rise, or mixed-use residential building—the municipality may require a noise and vibration impact study. This is especially important if the development is near a major roadway, rail corridor (train, subway, LRT, or streetcar), airport, industrial facility (such as a factory, quarry, refinery, or power plant), or commercial plaza.

In the early stages of planning—such as during the development of or amendments to an Official Plan, or in a proposed rezoning—a noise feasibility study may be required. This type of study evaluates the broad compatibility of different land uses, such as a residential zone adjacent to an industrial zone, and identifies potential mitigation measures. Since these preliminary studies often assess undeveloped or transitioning areas, they rely primarily on predictive methods, such as acoustical computer modeling, to estimate future sound levels.

At more advanced stages of the planning process, when a specific development or building is proposed, a full impact study may be conducted. This study addresses critical factors such as subdivision layout, dwelling orientation, the selection of sound-insulating walls and windows, and the design of noise barriers or berms where necessary.

Noise and Vibration Impact Studies and Assessments may be required by:

• Municipal Planning and Land Use Authorities
• Land Use and Planning Tribunals
• Utilities and Infrastructure Authorities having precedence to comment on or appeal land use approvals, such as railways, transportation authorities, airport authorities, power transmission commissions, and pipeline companies