Learn about permitted noise levels, how to make a noise complaint, and requirements for approval of out-of-hours construction work, including a noise management plan.
Noise disturbances can be disruptive and affect our wellbeing.
If you find yourself affected by excessive noise:
- Check the noise regulations: Before escalating the issue, familiarise yourself with the permitted noise levels and conditions outlined on this page. This will help in determining if the noise you're experiencing is beyond the allowed limit.
- Engage directly: Approach the person or business responsible for the noise. Engage with them politely and discuss how the noise is impacting you. Direct communication can often lead to faster and more amicable resolutions.
- Formal complaint: If the disturbance continues and you believe it exceeds permitted levels, submit your concerns to the City using the Public Health Complaint Form. As part of the complaint process:
- Document specific instances of noise disturbance with the Health Services Record of Events Form (linked below)
- Be prepared for the possibility of sound level measurements being taken from your property to support the investigation.
Report drone complaints to the Civil Aviation Safety Authority.
Under the Environmental Protection Act 1986, it is an offence to emit excessive noise that unreasonably affects the health and amenity of surrounding residents.
The WA Police, together with the City's Environmental Health Officers, have the authority to issue fines, notices, or even seize property in response to noise complaints under this legislation.
The Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997 further outline the permitted noise levels, measures for managing excessive noise, and the penalties for contraventions.
Daytime construction noise
Noisy construction works may be carried out between 7am and 7pm, Monday to Saturday (excluding Sundays and public holidays).
The following conditions apply:
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Construction workers cannot create noise on building sites until 7am (subject to specific conditions).
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Construction work must be carried out in accordance with the Control of Noise Practices set out in S6 Australian Standard 2436-2010 Guide to Noise Control on Construction, Maintenance and Demolition Sites.
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Equipment used for construction work must be the quietest reasonably available.
At any time, the City may request that a Noise Management Plan be submitted for construction work.
Out-of-hours construction noise
For construction work done outside the permitted hours of 7am and 7pm, Monday to Saturday (excluding Sundays and public holidays), the builder must:
- Show that it is reasonably necessary for construction work to be done out of hours and submit an Application for Approval of a Noise Management Plan for Out-of-Hours Construction Noise (see below).
- Submit a Noise Management Plan.
For all construction outside the standard daytime hours, you must obtain approval for a comprehensive Noise Management Plan.
The Noise Management Plan must include details of:
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The need for the construction work to be done out of hours
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The types of activity that may be noisy
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Noise level predictions
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Proposed noise and vibration control measures
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Proposed methods of noise and vibration monitoring
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Complaint response procedures.
Important note: Your application for approval should be lodged at least seven days before the construction work starts. This Noise Management Plan must be approved before works commence.
For more information on noise regulations and requirements, contact the City’s Health Services team on 08 9411 3444 or [email protected].
References