Numerous charges laid at 'unsanctioned' 300-car meet-up in Cambridge, Ont.

Waterloo regional police say they have charged multiple people at a large car meet-up in Cambridge, Ont., for noise and other alleged violations.

Police says approximately 200 cars were gathered in the area of Sheldon Drive and Conestoga Boulevard, blocking driveways, speeding and causing excessive noise. Police called the event an "unsanctioned car rally."

Organizers say over 300 cars took part in the event and it was held on private property, with permission from the property owner.

Police said the gathering took place at approximately 9 p.m. ET on Friday.

Event organizers Most Wanted Customs, a vehicle customization shop, and Drift Culture, which makes car apparel, decals and accessories, say it was a family-friendly event, with ice cream, music, a variety of vendors and tattoo artists.

Social media posts on Instagram showed several cars parked side by side in a long row at a car meet-up. Many of the cars were uniquely decorated or modified, showcasing custom car wraps.

Hopes for a bigger event

In a statement, a spokesperson for Most Wanted Customs, a vehicle customization shop, told CBC News the event was held to attract new customers and mark the start of the summer season — a popular time for people to seek out a new wrap or design for their cars.

The spokesperson said the store had permission to host the event from the owner of the lot where the meet-up was held. Organizers said they hope to host another, bigger event before the end the year.

When asked if they saw police at Friday's event, the spokesperson said officers were present throughout, passively observing the gathering.

"We do not support any illegal street racing, or drifting or anything like that," the spokesperson said.

Brad Hickey, a spokesperson for the Waterloo Regional Police Service, says they were responding to community concerns.

"Throughout the evening, Waterloo Regional Police received numerous complaints regarding racing, speeding, blocked driveways and excessive noise," Hickey said in a statement to CBC.

"Waterloo Regional Police would like to remind all motorists that while attending car events and enjoying your vehicle is lawful, dangerous driving and disruptive behaviour are not, and will be addressed accordingly."

The Waterloo Regional Police Service says the numerous charges include:

• Two charges for unnecessary noise and one noise warning.
• Improper muffler charge and one warning.
• Three charges for driving a motor vehicle while failing to display plates.
• A charge for colour coating on windows obscuring interior.
• Two fail-to-surrender insurance card charges.
• A charge of failing to surrender a motor vehicle permit.
• A charge of driving a motor vehicle with no currently validated permit.
• A vehicle modified, fail to apply for a new permit charge.
• An obstruct plate charge.

Police are asking the public to call them at 519-570-9777 if they observe any large "unsanctioned" car gatherings in the region.