Report nuisance noise
What is noise?
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
Domestic and commercial noise
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
Related documents
Construction and contractor noise
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