Residential Noise
Problems
Noise pollution is with us almost all the time but we often do not recognise how serious its effects can be.
If talking to your neighbour does not resolve the problem you have other options available. A branch of the Department of Justice called Dispute Resolution Centre of Victoria is available to assist in resolving any civil matter. The service is free and confidential. Through mediation, both parties aim to reach an amicable agreement. The Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria can be contacted on 9603 8370. Alternatively, visit their website: www.justice.vic.gov.au
The Police and Council can also be called upon to directly deal with the noise problem. Council may be able to assist you if the noise can be deemed to be a nuisance pursuant to the Health Act 1958. The noise would need to be a nuisance, and also be dangerous to health or offensive (or liable to be so). Council's Environmental Health Unit will be able to provide you with advice and may be able to assist you further.
Noise from music/parties that occurs after hours should be referred to the police, as they can deal with the noise as it is occurring if they deem it to be unreasonable. The Environment Protection (Residential Noise) Regulations 1997 are a guide as to the times of day certain noises may be deemed to be unreasonable.
The Residential Noise Regulations can be found at www.epa.vic.gov.au/noise
Who to contact
Noise at night, i.e. stereos, parties, etc.
For immediate response, contact the Police on 000.
Commercial Noise
Commercial Noise is usually investigated by either Council or the Environment Protection Authority. Several factors need to be considered including the level of the noise, the amenity of the area and any permit the company have allowing them to operate. Council's Environmental Health Unit is able to provide you with advice regarding such issues.
Phone 9518 3539/3540.
Major Industry
The Environment Protection Authority will investigate noise reports about major industries. Under the State Environment Protection Policy (Control of noise from commerce, industry and trade) No N-1 sets limits for noise from industry.
Contact the EPA on 9695 2722 or 9695 2777.
Burglar Alarms
Contact the Local Police.
It is suggested you and your neighbour arrange a way of contacting a person who can access your house in your absence and turn off the alarm.
Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria
Phone 9603 8370 or freecall 1800 658 528.
This organisation is established to help people settle their dispute in a cooperative and lasting way through mediation. Services are free and confidential.
Legal Referral Services
Phone 9607 9550
At the Legal Referral Service an operator will offer you the names of three solicitors who practice in the relevant area of law. The solicitor you choose will give you an initial interview of up to 30 minutes for a minimum fee.
Updated: 15 June 2009
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