Noise nuisance

Before you contact us, we always suggest you talk to your neighbours first to try and resolve any problems. Often, your neighbour may not be aware they're causing a problem.

We can help with certain types of noise which cause a statutory noise nuisance. This is noise which unreasonably and significantly interferes with the use or enjoyment of your home or other premises. You must experience it regularly or for an extended period of time. We have legal powers to deal with this type of nuisance.  

Please use the webform to report a noise issue.

Report a noise issue

You need to provide evidence to back up a complaint about noise. This can be in the form of a noise diary. We've provided an example that you can download and use:

Word version

PDF version

You should make entries to the diary for one month and send it to us. One of the team will review it and decide whether to investigate further. We will contact you at this time if necessary.

Evidence you need to show

We'll ask you to provide evidence such as: 

• a diary sheet saying what the issue is
• when and how often it happens 
• photographs 
• videos 
• maps or drawings

Points to note

The following are unlikely to be a statutory nuisance:

• dogs barking occasionally
• a one-off party
• DIY
• a lawnmower or garden tools being used
• a baby crying 

We can't investigate:

• people shouting, laughing or screaming on a public road or footpath
• noise from air traffic
• noise from traffic or engines on public roads

The GOV.UK website has guidance on how councils deal with noise complaints.

Emergency out of hours noise

Examples of emergency out-of-hours noise could include:

• house or car alarms
• loud parties
• breach-of-notice noise

This service is available from 5pm on Friday to 8am on Monday on and public holidays.

If you are significantly affected by an emergency noise event outside normal office hours, please contact us on 01252 774477.