Health Services Information Sheet 8

Noise

Introduction

Noise refers to any loud sound that is unwanted or unpleasant. Most of us have been disturbed from time to time and there are probably occasions when we have been responsible for causing a disturbance to our neighbours.

Advances in technology and a current trend towards smaller block sizes in residential areas have increased the probability of producing noise that may affect others.

Generally, the community will accept the occasional noise fom neighnours, however ongoing disturbances can be annoying and lead to bad neighbourhood relations.

Power Tools

The use of power tools is inherently noisy and their use is allowed provided the equipment is in good working order and compatible with the work being undertaken. If using a static unit such as a brick saw or compressor, it is advisable to position it away from your neighbour's living and sleeping areas.

The use of this equipment should be restricted to between 7am and 7pm on Mondays to Saturdays with a later start of 9am on Sundays and Public Holidays, and operated for no longer than 2 hours per day.

Construction Sites

Work that creates noise on a building site can be carried out between 7am and 7pm on Monday to Saturday (excluding public holidays) provided:

The equipment is the quietest reasonably available, and
Construction work is carried out in accordance with the control of environmental noise practices set out the section 6 of the Australian Standard 2436 - 1981

For work carried out on a Sunday or public holiday the builder will need to have an approved noise management plan which would include how they propose to do the work and respond to complaints should they arise.

Intruder Alarms

Noise arising from the activation of audible intruder alarms can often cause considerable disturbance. If an alarm has been sounding for more than 30 minutes you may contact the police to have it disconnected.

Fixed Equipment

When installing fixed equipment such as air conditioners and pool pumps, remember that they may be operated for several hours per day and sometimes while neighbours are trying to sleep. Noise, even if not loud, can become very annoying under these circumstances. Don't assume that equipment which is described as quiet or which complies with the Australian Standards will not cause a disturbance.

Music

As a guide, music that is clearly audible at the boundary of a property may cause a disturbance and exceed allowable noise levels. Music with a dominant bass component can be disturbing even when it doesn't appear to be loud. The bass component should therefore be kept to a minimum.

Musical Instruments

It is very often difficult for musical students to effectively practice the playing of an instrument without the neighbours being able to hear it, however the level of the noise can be reduced provided the following measures are taken:

Play the instrument in a suitable room (a garden shed is not considered a suitable room).
In the case of electronically amplified instruments maintain the volume at the lowest level possible.
Consider utilising sound off pads and cymbal silencers on drum kits.
Only practice during the day for a maximum of 1 hour.
If possible, advise the neighbours of your intentions e.g. practice days and times.

Party Noise

If you are considering entertaining outside, it may be worth trying these suggestions to avoid a strained relationship with your neighbours.

Start your party earlier so that it can finish earlier.
Avoid using speakers outside the house.
Let your neighbours know about the party and the time you expect to finish.
Adjust the volume control (especially the bass) to ensure music does not annoy your neighbours.
If possible move your guests inside if the party is likely to finish late at night (after midnight) and close all windows and doors to contain the noise to your home.

If you require further information please contact the Town's Authorised Noise Officer on 9377 8000.

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