Noise Pollution

Neighbourhood noise is a frequent cause of nuisance and annoyance for people living in near to each other.

Any noise, including the noise caused by the common items listed in the table below, can cause offensive noise at any time. This is due to the absolute level of the noise, the duration of the noise or the characteristic of the noise.

The Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997 gives councils, the police and relevant State Government Departments the authority to investigate. They can take action where offensive noise is created.

Noise Sources

Step 1.Talk to your Neighbours

If noise is causing an ongoing issue, it is recommended that you discuss your concerns with your neighbour. In most cases, a positive outcome can be negotiated and neighbourly relations can be maintained. 

 

Step 2.Call the Community Justice Centre

For further assistance resolving disagreements, contact the NSW Community Justice Centre (CJC). They provide free, independent mediation between you and your neighbour.

 

Step 3.Make a Complaint

If you are unable to come to an agreement with your neighbour, or if you have concerns about approaching your neighbour, you may lodge a complaint. 

If the noise source is under Council jurisdiction you will be requested to provide your name, residential address and contact details. This to assist in the investigation of your matter.

You will also be requested to submit a noise diary

The diary records:

  • the details of the noise nuisance you are experiencing
  • the date and times you experience the noise
  • and how the noise affects you/your family
 NOISE SOURCE TIME RESTRICTIONS 

Domestic air-conditioners
  • Restricted between 10pm - 7am weekdays.
  • Restricted between 10pm - 8am weekends and Public Holidays.

Contact Council - Click here to report to Council.

Electric power tools, pneumatic power tool, compressors, swimming pool/spa pumps and powered garden equipment such as lawn mowers, leaf blowers, chainsaws and the like.
  • Restricted between 8pm - 7am weekdays.
  • Restricted between 8pm and 8am on Saturdays (unless their use is part of a development which is the subject of Development Consent conditions or Complying Development conditions which allow 7am use).
  • Restricted between 8pm - 8am Sundays and Public Holidays.

Contact Council - Click here to report to Council.

Late night parties

Please note the following complaints are outside of the jurisdiction and investigation of Council:

NSW Police

Call the Police Assistance Line on 131 444

Licensed premises (such as pubs, clubs and licensed restaurants)

Please note the following complaints are outside of the jurisdiction and investigation of Council:

Click here to fill out the NSW Office of Liquor Gaming and Racing complaint form

Motor vehicles (except when entering or leaving premises)
  • Restricted between 8pm - 7am on weekdays.
  • Restricted between 8pm - 8am weekends and Public Holidays.

Contact Council - Click here to report to Council.

Musical instruments and sound equipment such as radios, sound systems, and public address systems. 
  • Restricted between 10pm - 8am Sunday - Thursday.
  • Restricted between 12 midnight - 8am on Friday and Saturday.
  • Restricted between 12 midnight - 8am on any day immediately before a Public Holiday.

Contact Council - Click here to report to Council.

Refrigeration units fitted to motor vehicles
  • Restricted between 8pm - 7am on weekdays.
  • Restricted between 8pm - 8am on weekends and Public Holidays.

Contact Council - Click here to report to Council.

Sydney Metro (including station announcements)

Please note the following complaints are outside of the jurisdiction and investigation of Council: 

Click here to fill out the Sydney Metro complaint form

Vehicles on a public road

Please note the following complaints are outside of the jurisdiction and investigation of Council: 

Click here to report it to the EPA

OR

Call the Police Assistance Line on 131 444

For further information, contact Council on +61 2 9843 0555. 

Related Information

Back to top