A noise exemption application has been submitted organization “Debaser” for an event in the “SAW” courtyard.

Source of Noise: Amplified Music (live music)

Where: 67 Nicholas Street

When: June 13^th, 2026, 5:00PM to 1:00AM

Do you have comments on this application? Click on the blog post title to be able to comment. 

Rationale for exemption, from applicant: “ The requested exemption to extend outdoor music programming in the SAW Courtyard (67 Nicholas) until 1:00 a.m. on June 13, 2026 is justified by the cultural significance of the event, its strong track record of responsible operations, and the comprehensive measures in place to mitigate community impact.This date marks both the 5th anniversary and 20th edition of Pique, an award-winning multidisciplinary arts and music festival produced by Debaser. Since its launch in 2021, Pique has become a cornerstone of Ottawa’s cultural landscape, presenting innovative and boundary-pushing work across music, media arts, and performance. Over 19 editions, the festival has engaged more than 500 artists and welcomed over 20,000 attendees, contributing meaningfully to the city’s artistic vitality, nighttime economy, and reputation as a hub for contemporary cultural production.The June 13 event is a milestone edition that will feature expanded programming, including special site-specific installations, culinary offerings, and off-site events. Extending outdoor programming to 1:00 a.m. is essential to fully realize this enhanced artistic vision and to accommodate audiences in a safe, structured environment. Notably, similar extensions have been granted annually since 2023 without any significant complaints or issues from neighbouring residents, demonstrating a proven history of responsible event management. Pique’s organizers have developed a detailed and industry-aligned noise mitigation plan to minimize impact on the surrounding community. Sound levels will be actively monitored using a mobile SPL reader, with strict adherence to maximum levels of 97 dBA and 120 dBC (averaged over five minutes), consistent with standards used in comparable mixed-use urban environments. Speaker systems will be carefully positioned and oriented to direct sound toward the audience and away from neighbouring properties.In addition, proactive community engagement is central to the event’s approach. Neighbours have been notified of our plans and will be notified upon confirmation of the exemption in advance through direct outreach, including flyers with event details, contact information for real-time concerns, complimentary earplugs, and ticket discounts. During the event, signage will encourage patrons to be respectful when arriving and departing, helping to reduce crowd-related noise. Organizers will also follow up with neighbouring stakeholders to gather feedback and improve future practices.Beyond operational considerations, Pique plays a vital role in fostering inclusive and community-driven cultural expression. Through its programming and partnerships, it has supported the development of diverse artistic platforms and contributed to safer, more accessible nightlife models in Ottawa. Its emphasis on harm reduction, accessibility, and equity further underscores its commitment to community well-being.Given the event’s cultural importance, demonstrated history of compliance, and robust mitigation strategies, granting this one-night exemption represents a reasonable and low-risk accommodation that supports Ottawa’s vibrant arts ecosystem while maintaining respect for the surrounding community.”