Noise

The emission of noise from machinery, equipment and other sources may be considered an environmental nuisance if it is excessive and causes an unreasonable interference with a person's enjoyment of the environment.

If you are concerned about noise caused by a neighbour, the best option is to discuss the problem with them first and try to find a solution. A friendly approach works well as often your neighbour may not realise they are disrupting you.

If you cannot resolve the matter after talking to your neighbour, you can contact Council for advice. All noise concerns are investigated on a case by case basis and action is taken based on evidence. Generally complaints should include detail of dates and times relating to when the noise has occurred and the address of where the problem is. You should also be prepared to show that an activity has caused, or is likely to cause, unreasonable interference. If a noise issue occurs after hours (such as loud music in the middle of the night) please contact Tasmania Police.

The Environmental Management and Pollution Control (Miscellaneous Noise) Regulations 2016 contains prohibited hours of use for some noise-generating equipment operating at residential premises, if the noise is audible in a habitable room in any other residential premises.

Day of operation	Prohibited hours of use
Power lawn mower and other garden maintenance equipment powered by an engine
Monday to Friday	Before 7.00am & after 8.00pm
Saturday	Before 9.00am & after 8.00pm
Sunday or Public Holiday	Before 10.00am & after 8.00pm
Chainsaw powered by internal combustion engine operated within 300m of residential property
Monday to Friday	Before 7.00am & after 6.00pm
Saturday	Before 9.00am & after 6.00pm
Sunday or Public Holiday	Before 10.00am & after 6.00pm
Musical instrument or sound-amplifying equipment
Monday to Thursday	Before 7.00am & after 10.00pm
Friday	Before 7.00am
Saturday	Before 9.00am
Sunday or Public Holiday	Before 10.00am & after 10.00pm
Mobile machinery, forklift truck or portable equipment
Monday to Friday	Before 7.00am & after 6.00pm
Saturday	Before 8.00am & after 6.00pm
Sunday or Public Holiday	Before 10.00am & after 6.00pm
Motor vehicles, motor vessel or outboard motor (unless the vehicle, vessel or motor is being operated to move into or out of residential premises or a construction or demolition site)
Monday to Friday	Before 7.00am & after 6.00pm
Saturday	Before 9.00am & after 6.00pm
Sunday or Public Holiday	Before 10.00am & after 6.00pm

These noise regulations do not apply to noise that is specified in documents such as an environmental protection notice, a planning permit or a building permit. They also do not apply to noise that is emitted by the operation of any equipment or machine carrying out work that is required for:

• public health and safety;
• the provision of emergency services personnel in emergency situations; and
• the safety and security of plant and equipment in emergency situations.

For more information concerning noise nuisance please view EPA Tasmania’s website.