It's back to school time not only for kids, but for university students as well.
And that means back to school parties - and a lot of noise complaints in areas like Sandy Hill and Old Ottawa South.
Ottawa Police Staff Sgt. Sam Fawaz said they see a number of offences this time of year.
"The biggest issues are consuming alcohol in public ... large gatherings, large parties, noise complaints and the contravention of the City of Ottawa noise bylaws," said Fawaz. "In some cases I could tell you, last year for example, there was a couple of homes which are traditionally known to previous or current university students where keg parties were being held, where a small, little room had 400 people in it."
Fawaz said there will be an increased police presence around post-secondary campuses across the city and there will also be volunteers handing out information about respecting the laws and being a good neighbour.
"Our theme is 'don't invite us to the party," said Fawaz.
Tickets will be handed out, after new and returning students have been reminded about the laws.
"You try to create a happy balance and that's what the education component prior to enforcement is," he said. "We're trying to educate individuals. If you are the tenant, if you are the leasee, the homeowner, for example, but is residing there and there's a large gathering you are responsible, ultimately responsible for what goes on in your room, in your apartment, the home you have rented."
"If you decide to allow a large gathering of people, or you become a host of a party, you are responsible not only for ensuring that the noise levels are maintained, that all provincial laws are maintained within the home, but also if anybody else decides to leave your home and has consumed too much alcohol and they get behind the wheel, you can ultimately be held liable down the road in a civil suit."
Fawaz said there is zero tolerance for under age drinking, adding the fine for a party that is too loud is $400.
Police are also reminding students not to leave their drinks unattended.