Quebec campgrounds ban music and nighttime AC to reduce friction between campers
Sépaq introduces new 2026 rules: 11 p.m. to 8 a.m. curfew, no speakers or instruments, limited AC hours. Violation can lead to expulsion without refund.
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Quebec campgrounds have introduced a sweeping set of new regulations for 2026 designed to reduce friction between RV campers seeking comfort and tent campers seeking quiet. The Société des établissements de plein air du Québec (Sépaq) rules target noise, lighting, and vehicle limits across provincial parks.
A nighttime curfew now bars anyone but registered guests from campsites between 11 p.m. and 8 a.m., though whispering and walking your own site remain permitted. All sound equipment—speakers, radios, phones, musical instruments, including acoustic guitars around the campfire—is now off-limits. Music, podcasts, and broadcasts require headphones. The general noise rule: nothing should be audible from the road or neighboring sites. Singing in the shower is still fine as long as it stays within that limit.
Air conditioners are tolerated only between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m., and only while someone is actually at the site—no leaving it running while away. Generators get two windows: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., also only while occupants are present. A Sépaq spokesperson told Radio-Canada the new rules came from recommendations by an internal committee of field staff who flagged recurring friction points over years. On air conditioners specifically, the units were an irritant for campers seeking peace and quiet.
Campsites can now host up to 6 people, with a maximum of 4 adults. Guests are allowed between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m., but sites cannot exceed 12 people total at any time. Each site is limited to 2 pieces of camping equipment, with only one of those allowed to be an RV or trailer. Violations can result in expulsion without a refund.
By the numbers
What are the AC hours allowed at Quebec Sépaq campgrounds in 2026?
Air conditioners are permitted only between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m., and only while someone is present at the site.
What is the nighttime curfew for non-registered guests at Quebec Sépaq campgrounds?
Non-registered guests are barred from campsites between 11 p.m. and 8 a.m.
What is the maximum number of adults allowed per campsite at Quebec Sépaq campgrounds?
A maximum of 4 adults are allowed per campsite, though sites can host up to 6 people total.
What sound equipment is prohibited at Quebec Sépaq campgrounds?
Speakers, radios, phones, musical instruments including acoustic guitars, and any sound equipment that is audible from the road or neighboring sites are prohibited.
