Noise generated from children playing basketball at home, can sometimes result in a disturbance being caused to immediate neighbours. The main reason for a complaint is often the thump which reverberates through an adjoining home as the ball is being bounced, or the shudder of the backboard as it is hit by the ball.
Basketball courts are often available in playgrounds and the use of these facilities can often resolve a neighbourhood dispute.
This type of activity is given special consideration under the Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997, however the following points need to be observed.
- Your premises should not become the general play area for children living nearby
- Locate freestanding basketball hoops away from garage doors to prevent the noise caused by a missed shot striking the doors
- Play should cease by 7.00pm
- Only two hours of play per day is allowed.
If you receive a complaint from a neighbour, try and reach an agreement on a suitable timetable which suits both parties. Most children attending school will generally want to play shortly after returning home from school, before mealtime. During school holidays, there will need to be a degree of flexibility.
Families with young children should consider the stress this type of noise may cause a neighbour, and neighbours also need to appreciate that children often learn through play and that this is an integral aspect of growing up.
For further information on sports equipment, please refer to the Specified Equipment fact sheet or contact an Environmental Health Officer.