Construction sites
Noise restrictions apply
The construction industry can be noisy but developers must take steps to prevent offensive noise and limit the impact on residents.
Noise restrictions are set out in a code of practice. Developers must hire a qualified acoustic consultant to state how they will comply with noise restrictions as part of the DA (development application) process.
All potentially noisy work in the city centre must be carried out between 7am and 7pm on weekdays and 7am and 5pm on Saturdays. Construction in all other parts of the local area must take place between 7.30am and 5.30pm Monday to Friday and 7.30am to 3.30pm on Saturday. In certain instances, these hours may be modified where the contractor has consulted the City.
During the first hour of work on a construction site, noise levels can’t exceed 5 decibels above background noise. After the first hour, noise can increase but still must not be more than 10 decibels above background noise level.
When noise conditions are exceeded
If a development can’t proceed within the code’s noise criteria, the City of Sydney can restrict the use of the equipment and developers may need to take breaks to give those living and working nearby some respite. The City may restrict times when the equipment can and can’t be used within the development consent.
If a neighbour complains, further respite periods may be negotiated or included within a legal notice to ensure adequate breaks are in place to protect affected residents.
The developer must have a procedure in place to deal with complaints, so concerns can be investigated and resolved whenever they are raised. Contact details for a suitable, readily available representative must be displayed at the site and neighbouring properties.
The developer needs to keep a log detailing noise complaints and any action taken. This information can be requested by the City’s environmental health officers as part of an investigation into noise complaints.
If you require further information please refer to the fact sheet and code of practice available for download below, or please contact us if a developer or contractor is not responding or properly dealing with complaints.
City of Sydney
Tel: 02 9265 9333
Email: council@cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au
| Downloads | ||
|---|---|---|
| Code of practice: construction hours | PDF 1.7 MB | Download |
| Fact sheet: construction noise | Word 1.7 MB | Download |
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Last updated: Friday, 24 May 2013