Noise complaints are enforced by councils and by the EPA depending on the source, and for a business a notice can put trading hours, plant or an entire operation in question. Under the Environment Protection Act 2017 the general environmental duty reaches noise as well as pollution. Most of these matters are resolvable — but the response has to be practical and evidenced, not simply a denial.
Part of our EPA & council defence practice.
Noise matters turn on measurement and standards. What was recorded, when, where and against what limit.
Attenuation, hours, plant changes or scheduling — a credible plan resolves more of these than an argument does.
Where a notice rests on complaint rather than measurement, that is worth testing before you spend money complying.
It depends on the source. Councils handle much residential and local noise; the EPA deals with certain commercial and industrial sources. Part of the early advice is working out who you are actually dealing with.
A notice can restrict how and when you operate, which for some businesses amounts to the same thing. That is why they should be answered rather than absorbed.
General information only — for advice about your situation, book a consult or call us.
Speak with a lawyer who acts in EPA and council matters across Victoria — book online, or call us.
