We investigate noise problems such as:
- persistent loud music from both domestic and commercial premises
- barking dogs
- sounding alarms.
When noise from a neighbour becomes a nuisance, we suggest you approach the neighbour first to speak with them about it. This usually resolves the problem quickly and is a better long-term solution.
- tell the person concerned that noise coming from their property is causing a problem as they may be unaware of this
- please ensure you are calm, fair and open when discussing problems and ask for co-operation
Make a noise complaint
Should the situation not improve after speaking with your neighbour or if you do not feel confident about approaching them directly please contact us by email to info@southribble.gov.uk or by calling 01772 625625.
When you make a complaint we will:
- contact your neighbour to tell them that a complaint has been made and the details of the complaint
- ask you to keep a diary so we can see when, how long, how often the nuisance occurs and how it affects your life at home- these are official witness statements that can be used in court
- try to gather evidence (such as witness accounts and recordings) to pursue legal action if the neighbour continues to cause problems
- serve fines if someone is found guilty of failing to comply with an Abatement Notice or Community Protection Notices, and possibly seize equipment if the problem continues.
Please note that a nuisance investigation requires the gathering of robust evidence that will provide support to a criminal prosecution, therefore the weight of evidence required is significant and may take some time to collect.
We may find that after our investigation there is not enough evidence for us to take formal action. However, you may still take private action to resolve an issue that you believe is causing a nuisance. At this stage we will provide you with information that may assist you in pursuing a private action.
We do not deal with complaints about roadwork noise, you should report issues with roadwork noise to Lancashire County Council
We do not deal with complaints about new road traffic noise, you should contact Highways England on 0300 123 5000.
Examples of things that have been found not to be a noise nuisance:
- a person carrying out domestic DIY work during the day and at weekends over a few weeks
- noise from children playing on a trampoline
- a party that happens only a few times a year
- footsteps from a neighbouring flat that could be heard due to poor sound insulation.
Legally we cannot take action on all types of noise, but we can offer advice on problems arising from things like aircraft or railway noise, and we can take action over car and intruder alarms.
You can contact us if a car alarm has been going off for more than 5 minutes, or an intruder alarm at a property has been sounding for more than 20 minutes. We have the legal right to turn them off, although we always attempt to find the owner/ occupier first, and would never leave a property or vehicle insecure.
Your identity
If we need to pursue legal action to resolve your noise complaint, and you are happy for us to do so, your identity may be revealed to your neighbour during legal proceedings. For example, your neighbour will have a legal right to know who made a complaint against them if they decide to appeal a Noise Abatement Notice in court. You could also be required to give evidence if the case goes to court.
Please note we do not investigate anonymous complaints because they could be malicious.