Ottawa withdraws 17 tickets for noise violations during protests

The sign outside City Hall in Ottawa (CTV News Ottawa)

The City of Ottawa cancelled 17 tickets for noise violations during pro-Palestinian protests nearly two years ago.

Bylaw Services officers issued the tickets under the Noise Bylaw in December 2023 and early in 2024 for using megaphones and amplifiers during protests in public places. Staff told CTV News Ottawa in December 2023 that verbal warnings were issued prior to the tickets being handed out.

The fine for violating the Noise Bylaw is $400.

In a statement to CTV News Ottawa on Tuesday, the city said the tickets were cancelled in the public interest.

“The City prosecutor withdrew 17 tickets today under the Noise Bylaw, each having a set fine of $400. Most of the tickets dated back more than 20 months to December 2023, with a few issued in early 2024,” interim city solicitor Stuart Huxley said in an email.

“Based on a review of the specific circumstances, the prosecution discontinued proceedings for reasons of public interest and to preserve limited court resources.”

In a post on social media, the Ottawa Palestinian Youth Movement called the decision to drop the tickets a “victory,” but said the city is refusing to defend the Noise Bylaw in court.

“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 said.

“A victory from a court battle would’ve forced the city to make changes to the bylaw and/or its application. In other words, the city refused to defend its own bylaw and ticketing practices. As of now, Bylaw Services can continue issuing tickets for protestors with megaphones.”

The Palestinian Youth Movement added, “This is an important victory for our movement and all those who are fighting oppression.”

Former Ottawa Centre NDP MPP Joel Harden told CTV News Ottawa in December 2023 he received a ticket under the Noise Bylaw.

His ticket was one of the fines withdrawn on Tuesday.

“Well that was a waste of public funds,” Harden said on X.

Huxley says the city’s Noise Bylaw remains in effect.

“Outlining the conditions under which sound amplification may be authorized and prohibiting any person from causing bass noise, unusual noise, or any noise likely to disturb the residents of the city.”