Noise pollution

Noise control procedures

All pubs and clubs should have noise control procedures in place to reduce noise from their premises. These may be set out as conditions on the alcohol and entertainment licence. It is important that all staff know how important it is to keep to these controls at all times.

Noise control procedures may include:

• Keeping doors and windows closed when music is playing indoors.
• Locating the band/speakers away from any doors/windows and as far away as possible from any neighbouring residents.
• Keeping the volume of music at a reasonable level that will not disturb residents.
• Considering how noise from the use of smoking shelters/gardens and from customers entering and leaving may affect neighbouring residents and taking measures to control this.
• Avoiding deliveries or emptying of bins in the early morning or late evening.
• Considering installing a Noise Limiting Device. Depending upon the type of device installed, a maximum noise level can be set where the noise cannot be increased or when power is temporarily cut to the amplifiers if the noise gets too loud.

A responsible member of staff should keep a regular check on noise from premises. Some suggestions for correct noise assessment include:

• Regular assessments should be carried out throughout the night, including when any entertainment first starts to check it is at a suitable level;
• The assessor should allow a few minutes for their ears to adjust when outside the establishment;
• The assessor should assess noise levels near the closest residential properties;
• If the noise level is too loud, the volume should be reduced to a level that is reasonable and will not cause a nuisance to nearby residents. The assessor should then go outside and check again until they are happy no nuisance is being caused.

Legislative controls

Environmental Protection Act 1990

The Council must investigate any complaints of a statutory nuisance and take legal action when a nuisance is found by serving an Abatement Notice on the person responsible. If the nuisance continues the person responsible for the nuisance is guilty of an offence and may be prosecuted and fined up to £20,000.

Licensing Act 2003

Licensed premises must try and prevent any public nuisance. Every business must check whether a noise nuisance could be caused and have a plan in place that can be inspected by the Environmental Health Service to see if it is doing enough.