How to Make a Complaint About Loud Noise

This page details steps you can take to resolve loud noise issues, including making a complaint.

You Can Speak to Your Neighbour

If the noise is coming from a neighbour’s property, you may choose to speak to your neighbour and ask them to remedy the situation.

Report the Problem

If talking with your neighbour does not work or you would like someone to visit, call us and report the problem at the time the noise is happening.

Phone 03 543 8400, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

It's helpful if you can tell us:

The type of noise;
the location and source of the noise;
the duration and frequency of the noise;
a return phone number so we can call you back.

Property Visit

A noise control officer will investigate and make an assessment (a subjective judgement) whether the noise is reasonable or excessive. If the noise is deemed to be excessive, a notice to reduce the excessive noise will be issued. This notice remains in force for up to 72 hours following the issue.

What if the Noise Continues?

Should the noise problem reoccur after the noise control officer has made an initial visit, you will need to call us immediately to lodge a further complaint. Make sure you let us know that you have previously called about this.

Equipment Seizure and Fines

If excessive noise is not reduced to a reasonable level straight away or reoccurs within 72 hours of a notice being issued, the noise control officer may enter the premises with a police officer and seize the noise-making equipment or render the equipment inoperable.

An instant fine of $500 for not complying with a notice to reduce excessive noise may be served as an alternative. A conviction in court can bring a fine of up to $10,000.

What Happens to Seized Equipment?

Where equipment is seized, it will be delivered to the Council the following working day. The equipment may be returned to the owner upon payment of a fee or we may refuse to return the equipment. This decision can be appealed to the Environment Court.