Overview

• Noise between 11pm and 7am is classed as a statutory nuisance under the Noise Act 1996, triggering council intervention when thresholds are exceeded.
• Local authorities can investigate complaints at any hour and issue Noise Abatement Notices for disturbances above permitted levels.
• Households must bring noise within A-weighted decibel limits—34 dBA over a 15-minute period or 10 dBA above ambient level within ten minutes of a notice—or face prosecution.
• Failure to comply with an abatement notice carries penalties of up to £5,000 for domestic premises.
• Persistent breaches may lead to private civil claims seeking injunctions or compensation in addition to council enforcement.