noise

Noise – make a noise complaint

Where noise is causing a problem, the best approach is often to speak with your neighbour and discuss your concerns. Your neighbour may not realise that there is a problem and the matter may be easy to resolve.

If noise from a neighbour is regularly an issue for you and you believe that the requirements for noise are not being met, you can ask the City to investigate the matter for you, by lodging a noise complaint with the City.

When lodging a noise complaint, you will be advised which Environmental Health Officer will be investigating your concerns and you may be asked to maintain a log identifying dates and times of the noise occurrences.

Please note: To get assistance for noise from parties, music or antisocial behaviour as they are occurring, the Police should be contacted on 131 444. The Police obviously need to prioritise their responses and you request for assistance may not be immediately forthcoming.

Complainant Details
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Noise – music, movies and parties

Music and movie soundtracks

Loud music and movie soundtracks are the most common source of noise disturbance. As a guide, music that is clearly audible at the boundary of a property may cause a disturbance and be regarded as unreasonable noise, regardless of the time of day.

Music with a dominant bass component can be disturbing even when it doesn’t appear to be loud. The bass component should therefore be kept to a minimum.

Parties or organised gatherings

It is reasonable for an occasional party or gathering to be held, provided consideration is given to neighbours. If you are entertaining outside, try these suggestions:

Start your party earlier so that it can finish earlier
Avoid using speakers outside your house
Let your neighbours know about the party and the time you expect to finish
Adjust the volume control (especially the bass) to ensure music does not annoy your neighbours
If possible move your guests inside if the party is likely to finish late at night (after midnight on Friday and Saturday nights or after 10.00pm on other nights of the week) and close all windows and doors to contain the noise to your home

Provided that all due care is taken to reduce the impact of any noise, up to four parties in a year is considered reasonable.

If there is an out of control party in your street, contact the Police on 131 444 for assistance.

Where noise from music, movie soundtracks or regular party noise are causing a noise disturbance, a noise complaint can be lodged using the online form Noise – make a noise complaint.

Noise – pool pumps, spa pumps and pool cleaning systems

Pool and spa pumps

Pool pumps and filters can often cause a noise disturbance to nearby neighbours. When installing a swimming pool or spa, consideration should be given to the location and type of equipment.

Unfortunately most complaints arise after the pool pump or spa pump has been installed and the only method of reducing the noise is by providing a barrier between the pump and the neighbouring premises. The following advice on preventing unnecessary noise may be helpful:

When choosing a pool motor for your pool, consideration should be given to purchasing a water cooled pool motor or a quiet air-cooled model
Install the pool motor on rubber matting (25mm is usually ideal)
Provide a flexible coupling secured by jubilee clips on the inlet side of the motor. This isolates the motor and can prevent any noise transmission along the pipe work
Construct an enclosure over the pool motor ensuring adequate ventilation to keep the motor cool (unless you have a water cooled motor). The enclosure should be constructed of dense materials such as brickwork or 30mm thick jarrah and be lined internally with acoustic lining or batt style roof insulation
Finding the right location for the pool pump is an important decision. Don’t assume that a pool pump that is described as quiet or compliant with Australian Standards, will not cause a disturbance to neighbouring properties. When installing your pool, seek advice from the installation company.

A range of measures can be used to reduce the noise impact of pool pumps once installed, including:

Asking your neighbours if they are being disturbed by the pool pump and if there are particular times when the pump disturbs them more. Most people are affected late at night, and early in the morning when trying to sleep. But remember that some people may be shift workers
Place the pool pump on a timer. This will ensure that the unit isn’t mistakenly left running and will limit the time of operation. Most domestic pools need the pump to run for 6-8 hours/day in summer to achieve the desired turnover of water. Remember to check the timer regularly as power blackouts or power surges can affect the operation of the timer
Maintain your pool equipment, keep the filter clean and service moving parts. Poorly maintained equipment can cause higher noise levels and reduce the effectiveness of the pump. Contact the manufacturer or installer for further advice.

Pool cleaning systems

Most pool cleaners on the market can, under certain circumstances, cause low frequency noise to be heard at nearby premises.

This noise is generated by the intermittent suction action of the cleaner as it moves slowly around the pool, causing sound waves to be transmitted into the ground. This can sometimes be heard as a low frequency thumping sound within a neighbour’s home.

Pool owners often leave the cleaner connected to the pool pump all the time during the summer months. During these months the pool pump may also operate for up to eight hours a day. If the cleaner is connected while the pool pump is on, the cleaner will also operate. In this instance the potential for a disturbance to neighbours is quite high.

Residents experiencing this kind of noise are unable to escape the noise by closing a window as the noise enters the home through the floor.

There are a variety of valves designed to reduce this vibration and there are also several pool cleaners which make no noise at all.

Where noise from pool pumps or equipment are causing a noise disturbance, a noise complaint can be lodged using the online form Noise – make a noise complaint.

Noise – musical instruments

Under the Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997, the playing of a musical instrument that is likely to cause a disturbance to a neighbour is generally permitted, provided the following requirements are met:

The instrument is played for no more than one hour per day between Monday – Saturday, 7.00am – 7.00pm and on Sundays or public holidays, 9.00am – 7.00pm.
The instrument is played in a suitable room with all of the windows and doors closed. A metal shed does not constitute a suitable room as there is insufficient attenuation of the noise.
Only a single instrument is being played. Band practice should occur in a studio or other suitable location.
In the case of drum kits, sound-off pads and cymbal silencers are recommended.
Electric guitars should have the amplifier turned down to the lowest level.

Where noise from musical instruments is causing a noise disturbance, a noise complaint can be lodged using the online form.

Noise – gardening, power tools and other equipment

There are many types of equipment and activities that occur on residential properties that may create excessive noise. This may include lawnmowers, edgers, garden blowers, high pressure cleaning equipment, power tools and chainsaws.

These types of equipment are allowed to be used on residential property, as long as certain conditions are met. Generally, equipment can be used for up to two hours per day between the hours of 7.00am and 7.00pm Monday to Saturday, and 9.00am and 7.00pm on Sundays and public holidays.

For further information, refer to the Specified Equipment Factsheet or contact an Environmental Health Officer.

Where noise from these activities is occurring outside of the accepted times and is causing a noise disturbance, a noise complaint can be lodged using the online form Noise – make a noise complaint.

Noise – air conditioners

Residential air conditioners can contribute to an increasing level of environmental noise in our communities, and sometimes can cause a disturbance to neighbours.

When choosing an air conditioner, there are many considerations that will have an impact on noise. Serious thought must be given to where external components of the air conditioner are to be installed, the size of the area to be cooled or heated, and the size and number of air conditioners required. Further information can be found in the Residential Best Practice Guideline (Western Australia).

Installers also have an obligation to ensure that any equipment installed does not emit unreasonable noise.

The permitted noise levels (assigned levels) for air conditioners can be quite low, particularly at night. If you are planning to buy an air conditioner, it should not be assumed that if it is described as quiet, or complies with an Australian Standard, that it will comply with the assigned levels.

Noisy Air Conditioners

If a neighbour’s air conditioner is causing a noise disturbance, the City can carry out a noise assessment. Complaints can be lodged using the online form.

Should it be determined that an air conditioner does not meet the assigned levels, the City may request modifications to occur, servicing to be carried out, or may place restrictions on the use of the air conditioner.

Noise – aircraft, trains or road vehicles

Noise emissions from aircraft, trains and road traffic noise are generally exempt from the Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997.

All aircraft noise enquiries and complaints can be directed to:

The Aircraft Noise Enquiry Line (Airservices Australia) on 1300 302 240 for all local, domestic and international flights (including helicopters)
Pearce Airbase on 9571 2000 for all military flights (including military helicopters)

Noise emissions from rail can be directed to the Public Transport Authority Comment Line on 131 608.

The Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997 can apply where a vehicle is being used on private property in an unreasonable manner. This may include the excessive-revving of an engine. The normal vehicle movements of a person leaving their home is not considered unreasonable, regardless of the time of night or day.

Noise – intruder alarms

Alarms can be an effective way to improve home security, deter potential burglars and protect property from theft. However, false alarms and faulty security systems can disturb your neighbours.

Property owners who seek to protect their home by installing an audible intruder alarm should consider the following:

The alarm has been installed by a licensed security agent
You are familiar with your alarm system and can operate it correctly
The alarm has auxiliary power backup
The alarm system is maintained in proper working order and serviced at least once every 12 months
The alarm is in a location that minimises the possibility of damage or interference
The length of the siren is limited to a maximum of 10 minutes
The sound level of an external siren is limited to 90 dB(A), one metre from the perimeter of the building
Arranging a friend or family member, preferably someone that lives close, to disarm and service a faulty alarm should a problem occur whilst you are away from home

If you are disturbed by an alarm that is faulty or operating intermittently, an Environmental Health Officer may be contacted for assistance.

WA Police have powers to enter any premises where an alarm has been sounding for 30 minutes. They can enter the premises and arrange for the alarm to be deactivated and the cost can be recovered from the owner of the house or business.

Noise – basketballs or sports equipment

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.

Noise – pet birds

Many families choose to have birds as pets. Some species of birds will make more noise than others and this can have an impact on not just your family, but also the neighbourhood.

When selecting a type of bird to keep as a pet, the amount of noise the bird is likely to make should be given serious consideration. If you have a bird that you or your neighbours think is noisy, there are a number of steps you can take to reduce the amount of noise:

Try placing a towel or blanket (don’t use a polyester fabric as it does not breath) over the cage, making sure there’s enough air flow. The cloth should be thick enough to block out the light of day as this should lull your pet bird back to sleep. Do not use a cloth over the cage as an automatic response to noise. Only use it at night, or when you’re trying to sleep in the morning. Keeping the bird covered all the time can make them unsocial and even neurotic
Most birds will become quiet in the dark. Remember to turn off any lights around the cage or aviary
Be slow-paced and comforting. Your bird might be getting nervous or upset and moving too quickly can aggravate this. Check that there are no other disturbances around the bird, such as early morning machine noises or an ability to hear other birds waking up outside
Talk quietly to your bird. Birds will often quiet down to hear what you are saying
Birds may learn to make loud noise as a means of getting your attention. If you yell at your bird when it is loud, it may think the two of you are just yelling together in harmony. Birds don’t find yelling as irritating. Instead, remain indifferent as you hush your bird and don’t make eye contact
Boredom can cause your bird to be loud. If the bird is caged too often, the cage is too small, the bird is secluded from people or has too few toys the bird may start to “scream”. To relieve this, try moving the cage and rotate the bird’s toys regularly to keep it entertained. Also, use a variety of swings, shredding toys, foot toys, appropriate chewing toys and bells as amusements for your bird
The simplest way to reduce noise is to give your birds lots of attention. The more play time it has with you, the less noise it will make when you are trying to relax
Be sure to reward your bird when it is behaving quietly. Food treats such as apple slices or plain popcorn (without butter, salt or other seasonings) is good for this.

Complaints regarding noisy birds can be lodged using the online form Noise – make a noise complaint.

Noise – concerts and other large events

Concerts, cultural and entertainment type events held in the City add vibrancy, provide commercial opportunities to local businesses and are a source of entertainment to local residents.

Some events may result in excessive noise emissions. Where an event is likely to create excessive noise, an application for approval for a non-complying event may be required under the Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997.

In cases where an approval for a non-complying event is provided, the level of noise that is considered by the City to be reasonable, will be stipulated to the event organiser. These levels are required to be met without exception and monitoring of the event is carried out to ensure that they are. Residents that are likely to be affected by noise, will be informed of the event by the organiser. A dedicated complaint’s phone line is also required to be provided by the organiser for the duration of the event, so that noise issues can be addressed as they occur.

Under the Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997, noise from some community activities are exempt from the requirement for meeting the normal allowable noise levels. Exempt noise can include children in school playgrounds, noise from fairs and fetes, crowds at sporting events, church services and community concerts and events.

The City can still take action on exempt noise, if it considers that the noise impacts are excessive.

Noise – construction or building sites

The Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997 allow construction work to be carried out between 7.00am and 7.00pm on Monday to Saturday (excluding public holidays). This is provided that the equipment is in good working order and is used in the manner it was designed for.

A request to undertake construction work outside of these times can be made to the City if there are extenuating circumstances that require the work to occur. In these instances, the following would be required:

Justification as to why the works must be undertaken outside normal construction hours
An indication that the equipment being used is the quietest reasonably available
An indication that the works would be carried out in accordance with AS 2436-2010 Guide to noise and vibration control on construction, maintenance and demolition sites
The submission of a noise management plan in respect of the construction site

A noise management plan would need to address the following:

Details of the construction work that is likely to be undertaken outside normal construction hours
Details of activities intended to occur on the construction site, including their duration, that are likely to result in noise emissions above prescribed levels
Predictions of noise emissions
Details of measures to be implemented to control noise emissions (including vibration)
Procedures to be adopted for monitoring noise emissions (including vibration)
Complaint response procedures
Written notification to adjoining properties who may experience significant noise

Where construction work is occurring outside of the accepted times and is causing a noise disturbance, a noise complaint can be lodged using the online form Noise – make a noise complaint.

Noise – flags and windchimes

The noise created from flags can sometimes cause a disturbance to neighbours, particularly where the halyard and shackles are banging on metal poles on a windy night. The potential for noise can be reduced by tying the hoisting rope securely to the flag pole, covering up any shackles, metal buckles, dog clips or rings on the flag with tape, and checking the flag pole regularly.

If you are considering erecting a flagpole, an application for development approval may be required. Further information is available on the City’s webpage, Development (Planning) Application Requirements.

Information on the protocols for displaying and folding the Australian flag can be found in Part two of the booklet Australian flags, which is available from your Federal Member of Parliament or Senator.

Windchimes are often installed as some people find the sounds windchimes make as spiritual or soothing. However windchimes can also be a source of annoyance to neighbours.

To reduce any impact of noise, windchimes should be located as close to your own dwelling as possible. For properties that are on smaller block sizes, units or townhouses, windchimes should instead be placed inside the home near a window or door.

Should a flag or windchime be causing a noise disturbance, a complaint can be lodged using the online form Noise – make a noise complaint.

There are many sources of noise in residential areas.

Where there are ongoing noise issues that cannot be resolved, the Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997 can apply. The City’s Environmental Health Officers can be contacted and asked to investigate the noise issue.

The types of noise issues often investigated include:

Playing loud music
Practising musical instruments
Party noise
Construction work occurring at unreasonable times
The use of lawn mowers or handheld tools at unreasonable times
Pool pumps, air conditioning units or other similar equipment
Intruder alarms.

Depending upon the source of noise, there are different requirements that can apply. For more information, please refer to the various website articles related to noise, displayed on the right hand side of this page.

Lodging a noise complaint

If noise is regularly disturbing you and you believe that the requirements for noise are not being met, you can ask the City to investigate the matter for you, by lodging a noise complaint with the City.

A noise complaint can be lodged using the online form Noise – make a noise complaint.

Assistance for noise while it is occurring

For assistance with noise that is currently occurring from anti-social activities, you may consider contacting the WA Police on 131 444. Please note that the WA Police must prioritise calls for assistance and they may not be able to attend.

Noisy parties

If a party occurring nearby is noisy or starting to get out of control, residents are encouraged to call the Police on 131 444.

If a neighbour is regularly having parties that cause a disturbance it is also recommended to contact the City’s Health and Environmental Services during business hours or by lodging a complaint using the online form Noise – make a noise complaint.

The City will then write to your neighbour advising of what is reasonably expected from parties. If this advice is not heeded, the City may then consider taking enforcement action.

Complainant Details

Location of noise source

Complaint Details