Noise Nuisance

Sometimes noise from a property can cause disturbance to other people.

We can help with noise from:

• domestic properties
• industrial properties
• construction sites
• car alarms and loud speakers
• pubs and clubs

We cannot help with noise from:

• a one-off party
• daytime use of lawnmowers
• crying babies
• occasional dog barking
• people walking or congregating in the street

If you are being bothered by noise you could approach the person responsible and ask them to do something to control the noise. Often people do not realise they are causing a problem. You do not have to try this approach if you feel unsure.

Your details will be kept confidential if you contact us for help.

On receipt of your complaint we will write to the noise maker and advise them to control the noise levels from their property. This can usually resolve complaints without any further action being taken.

We shall provide you with Noise Survey Forms. You can use these to keep a written record if you continue to be bothered by the noise after our initial approach has been made.

Return your forms to us when they have been completed. When we receive them an officer will visit you in an attempt to witness the problem. We shall inform you of the progress of your complaint throughout our investigation. You can contact the investigating officer to discuss your complaint.

We act impartially when investigating noise complaints. If we witness unacceptable noise causing a statutory nuisance an abatement notice is served on the person responsible.

If a statutory noise nuisance continues after a notice has been served we can consider further enforcement action including prosecution proceedings.

• Other authorities should be able to assist you with the following noises:
• Military aircraft Contact RAF Mildenhall 01638 542097; or RAF Lakenheath 01638 521945
• Civil aircraft Contact the airport concerned
• Microlight aircraft Contact Civil Aviation Authority 01293 563540
• Motor vehicles on highway (horns, revving, exhausts) Contact the Police

Related links: 

Environmental Protection Act 1990

Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act 2005

Noise and Statutory Nuisance Act 1993

The Statutory Nuisance (Appeals) Regulations 1995