Dealing with noise can be difficult, and it can be hard to know where to start.
We've put together some information to help you know what noise you can report, how do deal with noise problems and who can help you resolve noise issues.
The Environment Protection Authority (EPA) lists specific types of equipment and times their use is banned, including:
- cars
- air conditioners
- electric power tools
- lawn mowers
- musical instruments.
In general, you cannot make noise:
- Monday to Friday: before 7 am or after 9 pm
- On weekends and public holidays: before 9 am or after 11 pm.
Time restrictions vary depending on what's causing the noise.
Find out more details on time restrictions for residential noise by visiting the EPA's website.
Start by talking with your neighbours
You may feel worried about approaching your neighbour, but they may not be aware that they are disturbing you.
Talking about the noise early on can help make neighbours aware of the problem and be more considerate in the future.
If your problem isn’t easily resolved
If talking to your neighbour does not resolve the problem, you can contact the Department of Justice’s Dispute Resolution Centre, which helps resolve civil matters.
The service is free and confidential.
For more information, phone 1300 372 888 or visit the Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria website.
Contact police or Council
You can contact us or the police to directly deal with the noise problem.
Police and council officers can direct offenders to stop unreasonable noise for 12 hours. If a person does not comply with a police or Council direction, they can face on-the-spot fines. Directions can be issued at any time.
Call us
You can call us during office hours on 03 9217 2170 to report a noise problem.
Contact the police
Find contact details for your nearest police station by visiting the Victoria Police website and entering your postcode.
To report a complaint about barking dogs or other noisy pets, visit the nuisance cats and barking dogs page.
Noise from music and parties that occurs after hours should be referred to your local police. They can deal with the noise as it is occurring if they deem it to be unreasonable.
Find contact details for your nearest police station by visiting the Victoria Police website and entering your postcode.
Building noise can occur throughout different stages of home renovation and construction.
The EPA's website includes information on:
- how to reduce noise
- noise impacts
- how to report a complaint.
You can also report unreasonable construction noise to us by calling us on 03 9217 2170 or reporting it online.
Report construction noise
If you need more help with the noise issue you are facing, please call us on 03 9217 2170 or email us at info@whittlesea.vic.gov.au.