Toronto city councillors are addressing concerns about noise levels coming from pickleball courts due to the sport’s increasing popularity. Coun. Ausma Malik highlighted the disruptive nature of the high-pitched sounds generated by the game, prompting the council to pass a motion for further investigation into noise mitigation methods. The sport has seen a surge in participation since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, with Pickleball Canada reporting a substantial increase in players across the country.
Malik’s motion aims to explore strategies employed in other regions like British Columbia and Ottawa, where successful measures have been implemented to manage pickleball noise. Ottawa councillor David Hill shared insights on their approach, which includes setting specific playtime limits and relocating courts away from residential areas to alleviate noise concerns effectively.
Pickleball Ontario President Ian Campbell noted the sport’s rapid growth in Ontario, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions such as using quieter equipment and sound-absorbing fencing to address noise issues. While some residents find the sounds disruptive, others see it as a sign of community enjoyment. The City of Toronto is upgrading several pickleball courts to meet the increasing demand, but they have also observed a rise in noise complaints surrounding these facilities.
Despite the challenges, pickleball enthusiasts remain optimistic about finding a balance between play and sound control. The ongoing study by city staff on recreational facilities will include an examination of potential regulations for pickleball, reflecting the city’s commitment to fostering a harmonious coexistence between the sport and its surroundings.
