How loud is too loud?
While it is everyone's individual responsibility to keep the noise they make to an acceptable level, under the Resource Management Act 1991, the Buller District Council has the power to provide noise control measures for excessive or unreasonable noise.
The Council provides a 24 hours, 7 days a week noise control service. Just phone 788 9115 and your complaint will be forwarded to the Council's noise control officer. It is important to make the complaint whilst the noise is still occurring. Noise complaints cannot be investigated after the event and must be reported at the time if any follow-up action is to be initiated.
Noise can be deemed 'excessive' at any time of the day or night. The factors that might make noise excessive or unreasonable include; loudness, time of day, background noise, length of time and frequency.
Response to noise varies from person to person. One person's opinion of what constitutes excessive noise may be totally different to another persons. When a complaint is lodged a noise control officer will visit the property. The noise complaint will then be assessed and the appropriate action taken.
If the noise is excessive, a verbal excessive noise direction or written notice will be given or served, requiring the noise to be reduced to a reasonable level. If the notice is not complied with, the noise control officer, accompanied by a police officer, can remove or disable the equipment creating the noise. Seizure of the equipment will result in an infringement notices (instant fine) of up to $750 plus costs.
Repeated instances of excessive noise may result in an abatement notice and court imposed fines of up to $10,000.
Many noise complaints can be avoided by advising your neighbours in advance of events and by having a little neighbourly consideration.
For any general noise related inquiries or clarification contact the Noise Control Officer during normal Council office hours by telephoning 03 788 9112.
