Everyone has the right to a peaceful neighbourhood. It is an offence to make unreasonable noise from a residence.
Here's how to address unreasonable noise on your street and make a noise complaint about loud neighbours.
Key crime prevention tips
Tips to deal with unreasonable noise:
- if safe, talk to your neighbour first
- they may not be aware the noise is disturbing you
- if that fails, look into a noise complaint.
Unreasonable noise
Unreasonable noise can come from:
- vehicles
- musical instruments
- stereos or radios
- televisions
- air conditioners
- lawn mowers
- power tools.
What to do if you have a noisy neighbour
If it is safe to do so, try speaking to your neighbour and let them know the noise is too loud and disturbing you. They may not be aware there is a problem.
For alternative dispute resolution information, learn more about resolving a neighbourhood dispute.
Report a noisy neighbour or loud party
Victoria Police and members from your local council can respond to noise complaints.
To make a report contact your local council.
For noise issues outside of business hours, such as loud parties, call Triple Zero (000).
To determine if the noise is unreasonable, they will consider:
- how loud the noise is
- what the noise sounds like
- what time the noise is happening, and how often
- where the noise can be heard from (for example, the bedroom).
Always call Triple Zero (000) if there is immediate danger or your neighbour is threatening or aggressive.
Victoria Police and your local council can issue a direction to cease the noise for up to 72 hours. If the noise persists after this direction, police can issue an on-the-spot fine.
Additional information
Visit the Environmental Protection Authority website for information about:
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