What is noise?

Noise is best described as unwanted sound. If the cause of the noise is too loud and continuous it can become a nuisance to surrounding residents. Certain equipment can only be used during specific times or lengths of the day.

What legislation governs noise?

The Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997 are the prescribed standard for noise under the Environmental Protection Act 1986. The Regulations deal with noise passing from one premise to another.

The Regulations do not cover noise from registered vehicles travelling on roads, aircraft, trains or emergency warning devices, which are required under other laws. If you are unsure who to contact regarding unwanted noise, the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation have a guide to help.