Railway noise or vibration: how to prepare a complaint in Canada

Keep a dated log, identify the railway and location, first contact the company and use the federal complaint process if unresolved.

Repeated train noise or vibration is easier to assess when a complaint describes a pattern rather than a single general impression. Record the effects and try to identify the railway line and the company responsible.

Build a useful record

• Keep a log of date, time, duration, location, type of sound or vibration and its effect.
• Note whether the event coincided with a train, switching, braking, maintenance or construction, without assuming the cause.
• Keep short recordings from inside and outside the home when safe and lawful; note where the device was and avoid editing the originals.
• Contact the railway first with a concise description and ask what investigation or mitigation is possible.
• Keep copies of correspondence, reference numbers and any response or proposed action.
• If the issue remains unresolved, review the Canadian Transportation Agency’s current railway-noise complaint process and submit the information it requests.

The federal process does not necessarily cover every local rail operation or vibration source. Check the Agency’s jurisdiction and any applicable municipal process before filing. Do not trespass on railway property to collect evidence.

Canadian Transportation Agency: railway noise and vibration

Sources and limits

Source: Canadian Transportation Agency railway-noise and vibration information. Jurisdiction depends on the railway and issue; verify the current complaint steps before filing.

General information based on federal and national rules; provincial rules may differ. Confirm with the official body before acting.