Noise is defined as unwanted sound which can originate from sources such as noisy parties late into the night, commercial premises, air conditioners, building sites, and musical instruments.
The Environmental Protection Act (as amended) outlines that:
"A person(s) who on any premises uses or causes or allows to be used any equipment in such a way as to cause or allow it to emit, or otherwise emits or causes or allows to be emitted, unreasonable noise from those premises commits an offence."
Noise Complaints can be lodged with Health Services; however, it is requested that you first discuss the matter with your neighbour and request their co-operation. This is often successful and they may be unaware that they are creating a problem in the first place.
Construction Noise from building sites is not to commence before 7am or carry on after 7pm on Mondays to Saturdays. No construction noise is permitted on Sundays or Public Holidays, unless prior written approval is granted by the Town's Chief Executive Officer or Department of Environmental Protection (this is very rare and would involve submitting a noise management plan and consulting neighbouring properties). A publication by the Department on Health on construction noise can be accessed here.
The Environmental Protection Act 1986 (as amended) provides for the issuing of an on-the-spot Infringement Notice (maximum penalty $500). Further non-compliance may result in the issuing of a Noise Abatement Direction which may lead to a substantial penalty.
Air Conditioners which are installed close to your neighbour's property in regard to its location, often without prior consultation or consideration, result in noise complaints and costly relocation or modifications. The best location for installation is generally at the rear of your house as opposed to down the side of your house. Prior to purchasing an air conditioning unit please liaise with your neighbour, and click here for a copy of the Installers Guide to Air Conditioner Noise.
Health Services are unable to assist you with noise from the following sources:
• Traffic
• Barking Dogs (contact the Town's Rangers on phone 9273 6000)
• Anti-social Behaviour/Noisy Parties after hours: officers in the Police Service are authorised Noise Officers and best equipped to attend after hours, particularly where the persons creating noise may be under the influence of alcohol or other substances, phone 9222 1111.