Noise

Noise nuisance, in terms of the Environmental Protection Act 1990, can be defined as: ‘An unreasonable and significant emission of noise that causes significant and unreasonable interference with the use and enjoyment of your premises’

It is much more than just being able to hear a noise, or something that is annoying or irritating.  Before you make a complaint, we recommend that you try talking to the person causing the problem, in case they do not know that they are disturbing you. If this does not solve the problem, you can complain to us.

The most common things that people complain about are:

• Playing of amplified music / speech / TV / radios
• DIY
• Barking dogs
• Domestic disturbance
• Alarms (building and vehicle)
• Cockerels
• Bird scarers

Please note: We do not investigate ‘one off’ instances of noise disturbance. Complaints about hearing walking, banging of doors, moving furniture, raised voices, children playing etc. are unlikely to be considered a statutory nuisance.

Reporting Noise Nuisance

To help us deal with your complaint you should give us:

• Your contact details: including name, address and telephone number
• The address that is causing you nuisance
• Details of the nuisance and how often you are being disturbed, including dates and times and how this is affecting you.

Useful links

• Good neighbour leaflet
• What to do if you are affected by noise
• Taking your own action under section 82
• How to stop your dog barking
• Cockerel leaflet
• NFU Bird Scarer Leaflet
• Peacocks
• DEFRA Code of practice for Ice Cream Van chimes
• Audible intruder alarms form

Please Note: We will not answer anonymous complaints. If you contact us, your identity will be kept confidential in accordance with Data Protection legislation, however if the case goes to Court the identity of the person who has complained is likely to be revealed.

To make a complaint about noise from your neighbours, you can report it via our online form or by contacting:

Tendring District Council
Environmental Protection Team
88-90 Pier Avenue
Clacton on Sea
Essex
CO15 1TN
environmental.services@tendringdc.gov.uk
01255 686767