Statutory nuisance

Report a noise problem

We investigate noise complaints that may be considered a statutory nuisance. This includes noise from homes, businesses, alarms, barking dogs, and more.

How to report a noise issue

You can contact us during office hours (Monday to Thursday, 8:30am to 5pm; Friday, 8:30am to 4:30pm):

Noise from neighbours

Try speaking to your neighbour first. Many noise issues can be resolved informally. If this doesn’t work, contact us and we’ll investigate.

Be considerate when planning noisy activities like parties or DIY. Let your neighbours know in advance and agree on reasonable times.

Noise from alarms

You are legally responsible for your alarms:

  • home or business alarms must stop after 20 minutes
  • vehicle alarms must stop after 5 minutes

If you're going away, nominate a local keyholder in case your alarm goes off.

Ice cream van chimes must not sound before 12 noon or after 7pm, and must not last longer than 4 seconds. See the code of practice for more information.

Barking dogs

Dogs that bark constantly can disturb neighbours. Owners often don’t realise there’s a problem until someone complains.

Try speaking to the dog owner first. If that doesn’t work, contact us.

Noise in the street

We can investigate noise from:

  • machinery or equipment
  • vehicle alarms

We cannot take action on:

  • traffic noise
  • fighting or offensive behaviour – contact Cleveland Police on 999 for an emergency or 101 for non-emergency enquiries.

Noise from licensed premises

If you’re affected by noise from a pub, club or other licensed venue:

  • try contacting the business directly
  • if that doesn’t help, contact us and we’ll investigate

Under the Licensing Act, you can also request a review of the premises licence if the business is not meeting its legal responsibilities. This could lead to changes in their licence conditions or operating hours.

For crime or disorder contact Cleveland Police on 999.

Noise from commercial premises

Common complaints include noise from:

  • extractor fans
  • deliveries and collections

Try contacting the business first. If the issue continues, contact us.

Ventilation and extraction systems

Noise, fumes or odours from ventilation or air-conditioning systems can be a nuisance. This includes systems at:

  • restaurants and takeaways
  • factories and production plants

You may need planning permission to install these systems.

Noise from building sites

Construction work should usually only take place during the following hours:

  • Monday to Friday: 7:30am to 6pm
  • Saturday: 8:30am to 1pm
  • No work should take place on Sundays or Bank Holidays

Workers may arrive up to 30 minutes before starting. Noise should be kept to a minimum during the first hour.

If noise is a problem, speak to the company first. If that doesn’t help, contact us.