Railway noise and vibration

Complaints about rail noise and vibration

The Canada Transportation Act authorizes the Agency to resolve complaints about noise and vibration related to construction or operations by:

  • federal freight railways or
  • public passenger service providers (including urban transit authorities). 

Requirements for railway companies

Section 95.1 of the Canada Transportation Act states that a railway company shall cause only such noise and vibration as is reasonable, taking into account:

  • its obligations under sections 113 and 114 of the Act, if applicable;
  • its operational requirements; and
  • the area where the construction or operation is taking place.

Guidelines for the Resolution of Complaints Over Railway Noise and Vibration

Guidelines developed to assist persons, municipal governments, and railway companies to resolve issues related to railway noise and vibration.

Railway noise measurement and reporting methodology

This Railway Noise Measurement and Reporting Methodology (Methodology) was prepared to guide railway companies, citizens, and municipalities conducting a railway noise assessment in the course of a noise dispute before the Agency. 

Noise and Vibration from Idling Locomotives

This document explains noise and vibration from idling locomotives, including:

  • reasons why locomotives idle;
  • characteristics of noise and vibration from idling locomotives; and
  • potential ways of managing noise and vibration impacts. 
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