Noise problems

Noise is defined as unwanted sound - it could be:

• too loud
• too intrusive
• occurring at the wrong time
• excessive, sudden and unexpected

For example:

• a dog barking
• burglar alarms
• noise from commercial and licensed premises
• noise from the street or neighbouring houses

What we don't class as noise:

• baby crying
• children playing
• dog or pet noise
• loud music (this would only be considered antisocial behaviour if the noise is persistent)
• neighbours arguing or shouting
• footsteps
• DIY as reasonable hours

The council has powers (under the Environmental Protection Act 1990) to prevent a 'statutory noise nuisance'.

If necessary we can serve an abatement notice. Failure to comply with this notice is an offence, punishable by a fine of up to £20,000 in the Magistrates Court.

We will monitor the situation and decide if a statutory noise nuisance exists.

A licensee convicted of breaches of Environmental Protection Act 1990 also risks revocation of their personal licence/premise licence.

To help us resolve the problem, we suggest you consider the following approach:

• be prepared to listen to their reply - try to understand their point of view
• always treat the other person with the same respect that you would like them to show you
• find areas of agreement - use them as a basis for a workable solution

Constuction noise is unavoidable, but all builders and contractors should show consideration to their neighbours.

As a general rule, where residents are affected by noise or vibration, construction and demolition work will be carried out during normal working hours:

• Mon-Fri: 8am-6pm
• Sat: 8am-2pm
• Sun or bank holiday: No working

These times may not always apply, particularly work on railway lines:

• where a public transport service is needed
• for health and safety reasons
• in case of emergency

If a construction site is causing a disturbance out of these hours, or not taking reasonable steps to minimise the noise, we can serve a Section 60 Control of Pollution Notice.

This notice requires the developer to follow the British Standard for Noise and Vibration Control (BS5228).

Before demolition or construction a developer can submit a prior consent form for the work.

Download, complete the form and return it to:

Pollution Control
North Tyneside Council
Quadrant East
Silverlink North
Cobalt Business Park
North Shields
NE27 0BY