Noise
If neighbourhood noise is an issue, there are several steps you can take to help resolve the matter.
Start by discussing the problem directly with the person responsible for the noise. They may not be aware of the disturbance, and a simple conversation may resolve the issue.
Where you remain dissatisfied following a conversation, you can contact the Town’s Environmental Health Services Team by reporting your noise concerns here.
An Environmental Health Officer will contact you in order to discuss your concerns and obtain evidence, which may include the requirement to complete noise diary in order to investigate the matter.
If the matter remains unresolved, noise measurements may be taken to assess compliance with relevant legislation, and to determine what regulatory enforcement action is necessary.
Common noise sources
There are several common sources of noise that can disrupt daily life. Some fall under the jurisdiction of the town, while others are dealt with by organisations such as WAPOL.
| Noise Sources |
| Party noise |
Contact Police Operations on 131 444 to report noisy parties and anti-social behaviour associated with parties. WAPOL have powers to turn music off, issue infringement notices and confiscate equipment.
The WAPOL website has information on hosting a party, registering your party, tips for a safe party and information to parents.
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Power tools
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Power tools such as drills, grinders, welders, lawn mowers, lawn edgers, grass trimmers, leaf blowers, and cutting machines can be used for up to two hours a day:
- 7am to 7pm Monday to Saturday
- 9am to 7pm Sunday or public holiday
To minimise disturbances:
- where practical, use tools in an area such as a garage
- use the best tool for the job (one that will finish the job in the shortest amount of time)
- avoid using tools early in the morning or late at night
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| Musical instruments |
Musical instruments can be played for up to one hour per day during:
- 7am to 7pm Monday to Saturday
- 9am to 7pm Sunday or public holiday
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Air conditioners
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Air-conditioners must comply with assigned noise levels set out in the Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997.
Home-owners and installers are responsible, under the Environmental Protection Act 1986, to ensure new air-conditioning systems comply with assigned noise levels.
Property owners and installers need to consider the best location for air conditioning systems, and all practical noise suppression techniques should be used.
In general, if noise from air conditioning systems can be heard inside a neighbouring home, the noise may be unreasonable and not comply with assigned noise levels.
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Pools & Spa pumps
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Pool and spa pumps must comply with assigned noise levels set out in the Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997.
Property owners and pool installers consider where pool or spa pumps are located and ensure all practical noise suppression techniques are used.
In general, if noise from pool and spa pumps can be heard inside a neighbouring home, the noise may be unreasonable and not comply with assigned noise levels. |
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Construction noise
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Unless there is a legitimate reason to undertake, out-of-hours construction at any residential site is not permitted in the Town.
Noise associated with construction site activities can occur between 7am to 7pm Monday to Saturday.
Radios and stereo systems on construction sites must comply at all times with assigned noise levels. |
Additional information
If you have any questions, please contact the Environmental Health Services Team on (08) 9347 6000 or via email at mail@cambridge.wa.gov.au