What can be done about noise coming from a private premise?
Noise emanating from a private premise such as music from a party can exceed acceptable noise levels. As a normal practice, neighbours generally expect that volume levels will be reduced after midnight. However, if you feel the noise levels are causing you undue annoyance even if it is a ‘one-off’ you still have the right to make a complaint at any time. Any complaints relating to unreasonable noise can be made to the Police or local government.
Police and local government have the power to take whatever action is necessary to terminate the disturbance, including confiscating equipment and prosecuting the person/s responsible for the disturbance.
If there is a noise disturbance, the following steps may help you to resolve the issue.
Step 1:
Try to resolve the problem amicably by talking it over with the person/s responsible for causing the disturbance.
Step 2:
If you are uncomfortable in approaching the person/s responsible or unsuccessful in your attempt to resolve the problem, you can contact the Police or your local government.
Step 3:
Once a noise complaint has been received, a local government representative will advise the offender of the complaint and request compliance with the Environmental Protection Act.
Step 4:
Failure to comply may result in additional action being taken. Local governments have the power to serve a Noise Abatement Direction or Infringement Notice.
For further information on how to deal with noise complaints in your area contact your local government.
Click here to find out what can be done about noise coming from a licensed premise?