Domestic Noise
Domestic Noise can be a significant source of annoyance to members of the community. The volume, intensity, duration and time of the day all influence the level of annoyance. People also have varying sensitivities to noise. Those with hearing problems, the aged, children and the intellectually handicapped are usually more sensitive to excessive noise.
As well as loudness of noise, tonal, impulsive or modulated characteristics can make noise more, offensive. The level of background noise in an area will influence whether domestic noise is considered to be annoying. Obviously, noise levels during the day that cannot be heard clearly will usually be quite noticeable at a night when background noise levels are usually lower.
Noise Regulations
Noise Regulations were introduced in August 2016 which are similar to previous regulations. Prohibited hours for noise sources may now be varied (made more of less stringent) by building and planning permits and environment protection notices.
A person must not operate equipment or machinery on a residential property or a site where building are being constructed during the prohibited hours if the noise can be heard in a habitable room of another house.
Noise generated from public health or safety activities or emergency situation is exempt from these regulations.
Preventing Noise Problems
Many noise problems can be prevented by reducing the noise at the source. For example placing noise insulating material around a compressor or an air conditioning unit, regular servicing of equipment and installation that prevents vibration noise.
Consideration must be given to the location of noise emitting equipment in relation to other neighbours, for example a heat pump located directly opposite your neighbours bedroom is likely to create annoyance unless noise attenuation measures are taken.
Giving prior notice to neighbours that you are having a party and asking them to notify you if noise is excessive may help to maintain good relations with neighbours.
Resolving Noise Disputes
Many domestic noise situations can be resolved by agreement between the parties concerned. Discussing your concerns with your neighbours may allow for the problem to be resolved in an amicable manner. It is best not to confront a neighbour when your are angry as this will likely escalate a dispute and make it more difficult to resolve.
If you are approached by a neighbour regarding noise from your property please be respectful and endeavour to reach a compromise.
Making a complaint
Out of hours complaints that require immediate attention such as loud parties can be directed to the Tasmanian Police on 131 444, otherwise enquiries should be referred to Council’s Environmental Health Section, during normal office hours.
Formal noise complaints should be made to Council by calling (03) 6269 0000 or via our contacts page
If it becomes necessary to take legal action a complainant will need to be prepared to give evidence in court if required.
Please keep records of where, who, when and how often the noise is emitted.
Prohibited hours of the day for using equipment/apparatus
A detailed list of prohibited hours for construction, music noise, power tools, trail bikes, chainsaws and equipment is described below:
Portable Apparatus
(Power tools, Compressors, Pumps, Generators & Cement Mixers etc)
Mon—Fri before 7am and after 6pm
Saturday before 9am and after 6pm
Sunday & PH before 10am and after 6pm
Lawn Mowers
Mon—Fri before 7am and after 8pm
Saturday before 9am and after 8pm
Sunday & PH before10am and after 8pm
Chain Saws
(When within 300 metres from a house and only used for domestic garden maintenance only one day in any 7 consecutive days)
Mon—Fri before 7am and after 8pm
Saturday before 8am and after 8pm
Sunday & PH before 10am and after 6pm
Off Road Vehicles
Motor Bikes, Outboard motors & recreational vehicles (when more than 500m from a neighbouring house)
Mon—Fri before 7am and after 6pm
Saturday before 9am and after 6pm
Sunday & PH before10am and after 6pm
Mobile Machinery
Forklift trucks, industrial motor vehicles
Mon—Fri before 7am and after 6pm
Saturday before 8am and after 6pm
Sunday & PH before 10am and after 6pm
Musical instruments and sound amplifying equipment
(Must not create an Environmental Nuisance)
Mon-Thurs before 7am and after 10pm
Friday before 7am and after Midnight
Saturday before 9am and after Midnight
Sunday & PH before 10am and after 10pm
Fixed equipment
from 7am to 10pm max 45dB (A)
from 10pm to 7am max 40 dB(A)
Fixed equipment includes domestic heating equipment for hot water, air conditioners, evaporative coolers, pumps, generators and wind turbines, that are fixed at the location where used.
Security alarms must automatically turn off after 5 minutes of operation.