Builder and construction noise

The Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997 allows for construction noise to be created between 7am and 7pm on any day which is not a Sunday or public holiday. While builders are allowed to be on site outside these times, noisy activities may only occur during these times. 

Construction work must be carried out according to control of noise practices set out in Section 6 of the Australian Standard 2436-1981 'Guide to Noise control on construction, maintenance and demolition sites.'

The equipment used for the construction work must be the quietest reasonably available. 

After hours work

The City may grant approval for construction work to occur outside the times specified above. For example, major concrete pours in summer may be permitted before 7am.

A noise management plan must be submitted to the City at least seven days before work starts, including justification of the reasons for the request.

For approval to be considered, the builder must demonstrate that it is reasonably necessary for the work to be done out of hours.

For further information please contact the City on 9237 9254.

Penalties

• All builders are reminded that these requirements are law and not a council policy.

• Infringement notices may be issued. The notice carries a first offence penalty of $250, with any subsequent offences $500.

• Noise Abatement Directions may be issued to those people who undertake out of hours noisy operations.

• Failure to comply with these directions may attract a maximum penalty of $25,000 through the courts.