A dispute between the Regional District of Central Kootenay (RDCK) and the organizers of two Slocan Valley raves has ended and Area H residents will not have to endure the loud music events in the future.
RDCK bylaw enforcement began receiving complaints in the summer of 2021 for disturbances caused by organized live music events in the area. According to the district, these events were held on long weekends throughout the summer and grew substantially in size every year.
The RDCK fined the event organizers 2022 events, but they still decided to continue with the events the next year.
In 2023, The High Frequency Gathering took place the July 29 to 30 weekend in Vallican, south of Winlaw. Tickets for the event cost up to $75, and the event was sold out.
At the time, RDCK bylaw supervisor Jordan Dupuis investigated the site and reported that the loud amplified music could be heard several kilometres away.
The level, duration, vibration, and frequency of the events were described by the surrounding community as "unbearable" as high-base electronic dance music or trance music played from Friday until Sunday nonstop, day and night, during the events.
The district says residents said the music was disruptive, preventing people from sleeping at night, working from home, enjoying the outdoors peacefully, and spending time with friends and family on their own property.
The RDCK also received reports of stress caused to animals as well as pollution to the Slocan River, which is a source of drinking water for many in the area.
There were also significant safety concerns due to the number of vehicles blocking road access for emergency vehicles.
"There was a real possibility that a fire could occur during the hot and dry summer, thus putting everyone in danger," said the RDCK in a Nov. 20 statement.
The RDCK said it felt it was necessary to escalate enforcement due to the organizer's unwillingness to adhere to the bylaws and out of respect for all affected citizens. So in August of 2023, the district sought legal injunctions against The Labour of Love and High Frequency events.
According to the RDCK, all parties have now signed a consent order filed in the Supreme Court of British Columbia. The event organizers acknowledged contravening noise control bylaws and each organizer will pay a $1500 fine (total fines of $6000). They also agreed not to host, nor permit anyone else to host, a music event on the property and not to host an event anywhere in the RDCK that violates the district's noise control bylaws.
"Noise travels far in rural areas and it is strongly recommended to exercise compassion and communication with your neighbours prior to moving forward with events that can affect people that may reside kilometres away," advises the RDCK.
