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Noise

Noise can be a problem, particularly in urban areas. It should not create a nuisance for other people. Noise from residential properties that unreasonably interferes with a person’s enjoyment of the environment through its volume, intensity and/or duration can result in penalties being imposed.

If you are going to create noise, you should make sure that you do not breach the requirements of the Environmental Management and Pollution Control (Noise) Regulations 2016

Permitted hours of use

Regulations about the permitted hours of use for particular types of equipment can be found on the EPA website.

Noise Complaints

If you are having trouble with noise from a neighbour, the first step is to speak to them about it. Quite often, people will not realise that noise from their property is impacting other people in the area. So as a first step, it is best to approach your neighbour politely and let them know the noise from their property is bothering you. From there, you can discuss the problem and try to find a solution.

If you cannot reach an agreement, you can contact the Council on 03 6424 0511 or the Tasmania Police Assistance Line on 131 444. Noise pollution or nuisance is generally investigated by Council’s Environmental Health Officers during normal office hours and Tasmania Police after hours and on weekends.

When dealing with a noise complaint, Council Officers will first attempt to discuss the issue with the other party.  If negotiations fail or the noise nuisance continues then Council will take whatever action is warranted under the Environmental Management and Pollution Control Act 1994.

It can also be helpful if you (as the complainant) keep a noise diary of when the noise occurs, what the noise is and how long it goes on for. This will help inform Council’s investigation into the noise.

As the complainant, you also need to be prepared to attend court if the matter reaches this stage.

Further information can be found on the EPA website.

For further information or advice you can contact Council’s Environmental Health team on (03) 6424 0511.