Where can I read the adopted policy?

    Visit www.wsc.nsw.gov.au/services/environment/environmental-information/pollution-information/noise to view a link to the final policy document as well as access fact sheets, advice and complaint forms.

    What is the draft Policy about?

    Council receives regular complaints about neighbourhood noise issues each year. The draft Policy provides information on how complaints are managed, Council's approach and the types of actions Council takes. 

    Most common sources of noise are regulated through the Protection of the Environment Operations (Noise Control) Regulation. More information on neighbourhood noise rules from the Regulation is found in the Neighbourhood Noise Fact Sheet. 

    Does the draft Policy cover noise from development activities?

    No. Noise from development activities are dealt with through development compliance which has separate processes. The Neighbourhood Noise Fact Sheet does provide general information on construction noise.

    Who can help me resolve noise issues with my neighbour?

    Council recommends talking to the person making the noise to see whether they will stop or change their activities. You can also try to resolve the issue by contacting the Community Justice Centre but if that does not resolve the issue, a written complaint can be submitted to Council.

    More information on options is in the What Can I Do About A Noise Issue Fact Sheet.

     The Community Justice Centre is an independent agency that provides free mediation services. Community Justice Centres have a high success rate with people reaching an agreement in about 75 percent of mediation. For more information visit www.cjc.justice.nsw.gov.au


    Where is the online complaint form that the policy refers to?

    The Complaint Form and Diary referred to in the Policy are now available at www.wsc.nsw.gov.au/services/environment/environmental-information/pollution-information/noise

    Why are bird scare guns singled out in the draft Policy?

    The Protection of the Environment Operations (Noise Control ) Regulation covers most common noise issues, but not bird scare guns. Council has in the past received complaints about bird scare guns. The draft policy therefore outlines Council's conditions for the operation of bird scare guns. This is based on research into the rules in other states and regions of New South Wales, along with  consideration of the characteristics of our particular region.