Resolve noise concerns

Need a quick solution? First, try talking

By reaching out to noisy neighbours and workers in a friendly way, they’re more likely to cooperate, turn down the noise or adjust their operating hours.

Tips to resolve an issue with your neighbour

• Start small: Don’t begin with threats or accusations. Start with small talk before calmly addressing the issue.
• Listen and cooperate: Work together to find a solution and give them time to fix the issue. (For example, it’s not always easy to immediately quieten a barking dog.)
• Write a letter: If you feel unsafe or prefer a less direct approach, write a letter and slip it into their mailbox.
• Seek mediation: The Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria offers problem-solving strategies and may be able to provide mediation services. 

What’s your noise concern?

Barking dogs

It’s a concern if

The barking is excessive and prolonged. (Note: It is natural for dogs to bark at traffic, construction and pedestrian noise.)

Recommended steps

1. Speak with your neighbour.
2. If the barking persists, report the issue to Council. (Note: You will need to complete a noise log for Council to assess the issue.)
3. Use the Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria’s mediation services to find a middle ground with your neighbour.

Loud music

Common examples

• Musical instruments
• Stereos, radios and TVs
• PA systems

Prohibited times

• Mondays to Thursdays: Before 7am or after 10pm
• Fridays: Before 7am or after 11pm
• Saturdays and public holidays: Before 9am or after 11pm
• Sundays: Before 9am or after 10pm

Recommended steps

1. Speak with your neighbour.
2. If you live in an apartment, contact your property manager (most leases prohibit tenants from making noises that disturb others).
3. Call the police on 131 444.
4. If the music persists, report the issue to Council.

Construction noise

Common examples

• Power tools
• Air compressors
• Loud radios

Prohibited times

• Mondays to Fridays: Before 7am or after 8pm
• Saturdays: Before 9am or after 6pm
• Sunday, Christmas Day, Anzac Day, Good Friday: All day

(Note: Some permits and plans allow construction noise outside of these hours.)

Recommended steps

1. Check with Council if the activity falls outside of permitted working hours.
2. If the site is operating outside permitted hours, report the issue to Council.

(Experiencing other loud noises? Skip to the section for cars, power tools, bars and more.)

How other organisations can help

Police

Need help with night-time or one-off disturbances? Or an aggressive neighbour? For non-urgent matters, you can contact the police by:

• Calling 131 444
• Reporting your concern online

Property manager

If you live in an apartment, your property manager is your first point of contact. They can contact noisy neighbours for you and repair faulty machines within your building.

Environment Protection Authority (EPA)

The EPA sets Victoria’s noise guidelines and is your source for in-depth information. It also oversees industrial noise issues.

You can contact the EPA by:

• Calling 1300 372 842
• Sending an email to contact@epa.vic.gov.au

Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC)

The VGCCC handles rowdy behaviour inside bars and pubs. And while patrons are leaving. You can contact the VGCCC by:

• Calling 1300 182 457
• Submitting an enquiry online

WorkSafe Victoria

Is your workplace affected by excessive noise? WorkSafe Victoria can bring back comfort and safety. You can contact WorkSafe Victoria by:

• Calling 1800 136 089
• Calling 13 23 60 to report an emergency (24/7 line)

Review process overview

The actions we take and the time periods involved will depend on the specific noise concern.

However, here is a typical timeline of what you can expect.

1. Submit your report online (5 minutes).
2. We’ll contact you and update you with next steps (within 10 business days).
3. You’ll record any further breaches and submit your noise log.
4. If we determine the noise is a nuisance, we’ll take appropriate action. This may include education or enforcement.
   (Note: Although the noise may impact you, Council may be unable to take action. In these cases, please refer to the section: How other organisations can help.)

How to report a noise concern

Before you submit your report, please prepare the following:

• Your name, address and contact information
• The noise source, time(s) and frequency
• The steps you have taken to resolve the issue

Other noise concerns