Noise is 'unwanted sound'.

Excessive and unreasonable noise can make someone's life a misery and may be a Statutory Noise Nuisance

Below are some examples of noises that may be Statutory Noise Nuisances:

• Music and speech from HiFi's and TV's operated at excessive volume
  
• Dogs barking for prolonged periods
  
• DIY activities at unreasonable times
  
• Burglar Alarms that develop faults and sound repeatedly or do not cut out after 20 minutes
  
• Vehicle Alarms that develop faults and sound repeatedly
  
• Music 'breakout' from Licensed premises such as Pubs and Nightclubs
  
• Noise from Industrial and commercial processes and activities which are not using 'Best Practicable Means' to control or minimise noise
  
• Noise from demolition or construction sites occuring at unreasonable times, or from un-silenced or poorly maintained equipment, or from not using 'Best Practicable Means' to control or minimise noise

The majority of noise complaints that the Noise & Pollution Control Team investigates are about noise from neighbours.

If you are being disturbed by noise from a neighbour:

• Consider approaching them yourself and explaining politely that you are being troubled by their noise.
  
  
• You may find this difficult but often people are unaware that they are causing a problem and most will be glad to do what they can to reduce noise.
  
  
• However, approach the matter carefully if you think your neighbour might react angrily to a complaint.

Our anti-social behaviour pages also offer advice on problems caused by residents.

Click here to contact the Noise & Pollution Control Team

Page reviewed and updated 3 December 2007 GES