Noise

It is a fact of life that we all make noise, whether we are talking to others, playing music, entertaining, working around the house or just going about our daily business. What is enjoyable to one person may be noise to another.

Reporting common types of noise complaints

Below are some common sources of noise and the authorities you can contact to report a complaint.

At council, we will do our best to help you. Sometimes, this means referring you to another authority that is better suited to handle your enquiry more effectively.

If you don’t know who you should call, contact us and we can help.

Residential noise and residential construction noise

Examples:

  • Air conditioners
  • Pool pumps
  • House parties
  • Stereo systems
  • Residential construction and demolition activities

Who you can report to

Commercial or industrial noise

Examples:

  • Restaurants
  • Gyms
  • Supermarkets
  • Manufacturing
  • Utilities
  • Commercial construction

Who you can report to:

Music from entertainment venues

Examples:

  • Theatres and concert halls
  • Sporting events
  • Stadiums and festival grounds
  • Pubs, club and bars

Who you can report to:

Major projects or state government activities

Examples:

  • Major infrastructure projects e.g. major road projects
  • State government managed land use e.g. public schools and prisons
  • Noise from wind turbines

Who you can report to:

Reporting to Council

As listed above, Council officers may investigate sources of noise and decide whether noise is unreasonable. They consider:

  • Volume and intensity
  • What the noise sounds like – its character
  • Time and place How long the noise continues
  • How often the noise occurs
  • Other circumstances

The Environment Protection Regulations 2021 cover specific sources of noise from residential properties.

A list of prescribed times and their prohibited times can be found on the EBA website.

Report a residential noise issue