Nuisance noise

Nuisance noise should usually be reported to your local council, and not the police

Nuisance noise is any loud or persistent noise that causes you ongoing concern or affects your quality of life. Your local council should be your first contact for reporting nuisance noise as this isn’t usually a matter for the police.

Where the noise is from people being inconsiderate in a public space, this is an exception. You can report this as antisocial behaviour.

If a building or car alarm is going off and there’s clear evidence of criminal activity, such as a broken window or someone acting suspiciously nearby, call 999 immediately.

If there’s no evidence of criminal activity, we would always suggest trying to talk peacefully to the person responsible for the noise. They may already be trying to fix it. Unbelievable as it may seem, they may not even be aware of the problem.

If the person doesn’t want to stop the noise completely, try to reach an amicable compromise, such as no music after 11pm.

If you feel you can’t talk to the people involved, or they won’t listen, contact the Environmental Health team at your local council; they’ll be able to give you advice.