A policy to develop and regulate nighttime activities in Montréal

Last updated February 2, 2024
Reading time: 2 min

Enjoying Montréal more in the evening and at night is the objective that the city aims to meet with its draft policy concerning nightlife. Learn more about the issue and take part in the public consultation.

Dynamic, inclusive and safe nightlife 

Montréal is already known for its festive and creative nightlife, which is part of its identity and its status as a cultural and economic metropolis. 

 As in several major cities around the world, we want to allow both residents and tourists to enjoy the Montréal experience over longer periods of time. 

Various studies and pilot projects helped us develop the draft policy, which is being submitted for public consultation. 

Protecting residential neighbourhoods 

The project will be launched gradually, in areas conducive to evening or nighttime activities. These areas will be defined by the boroughs, which will work together with cultural, economic and community partners and the public at large. By-laws will be adapted accordingly. 

The goal is to preserve the quality and tranquility of Montrealers’ living environments. 

Promote harmonious cohabitation of activities 

The draft policy has 3 primary orientations: 

  1. Offer new business and promotional opportunities to our business and cultural partners, ensuring a healthy coexistence between nighttime activities and the needs of the public. 
  2. Offer a dynamic and safe nightlife based on entrepreneurship and the Montréal cultural experience. 
  3. Maintain current nighttime activities and reinforce developing sectors. 

What is nightlife? 

The nighttime period is divided into 3 time slots that have distinctive dynamics and challenges: 

  • Evening: 6 p.m. to midnight 
  • Middle of the night: Midnight to 4:30 a.m. 
  • Early morning: 4:30 to 6 a.m. 

Nightlife activities can take place in a variety of locations, including restaurants, bars, shops, cultural venues (theatres, museums, etc.) or public spaces. 

Take part in the public consultation 

The city’s partners and Montrealers are invited to share their opinions and suggestions on the project and to specify the role they would like to play in making it happen.

View the draft policy

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