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.
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Day of operation |
Prohibited hours of use |
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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 (May be used for domestic garden maintenance on only one day in any consecutive 7 days) |
|
|
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 |
|
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Monday to Thursday |
Before 7.00am & after 10.00pm |
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Friday |
Before 7.00am |
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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) |
|
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Monday to Friday |
Before 7.00am & after 6.00pm |
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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.