The Town has a number of shopping centre precincts which contribute to a mixed-use development environment. As such, we must consider the potential impact of commercial noise due to the close proximity to residential properties. The following type of activities can have an impact:
- Service delivery vehicles, forklifts and loading dock operations including roller shutter door systems;
- Mechanical equipment such as commercial air conditioning units, ventilation, and refrigeration systems noise from commercial buildings; and
- Amplified music from entertainment and licensed premises.
All of the above must comply with assigned levels stated in the Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997 (Noise Regulations).
Waste collections and other public maintenance works
The Town’s waste contractor operates from Monday to Saturday between the hours of 7am and 7pm. There are no operations on a Sunday or public holiday in compliance with Regulation 14 of the Noise Regulations. In addition, the Town’s street maintenance, bus shelter cleaning, park maintenance and grass mowing also occur in line with the above requirements.
The same expectations apply to all other private waste collection operators and maintenance, repair and gardening companies providing services to commercial premises across the Town. Please let us know if you are disturbed outside of these hours by reporting sufficient details of the operator that we can investigate and resolve your concerns directly with the operator.
Construction Sites
Noise from construction sites is not required to comply with the Noise Regulations between 7am and 7pm Monday to Saturday. Construction is not permitted on Sundays or public holidays. Construction work must be carried out in accordance with the Control of Noise Practices set out in section 6 of the Australian Standard 2436-2010 “Guide to Noise Control on Construction, Maintenance and Demolition Sites”.
Construction work outside the above hours may be undertaken following approval from the Town’s Environmental Health Officer. To seek approval, please complete and submit our Regulation 13 Application form. Each application is assessed based upon the necessity for the works against the negative impact the noise may have upon nearby businesses and noise sensitive premises (ie. private residences, accommodation premises, nursing homes). Please ensure all supporting documentation is submitted at the time of application to avoid any delays with assessment which may impact the scheduling of the proposed works.
If you are experiencing unreasonable construction noise, it is recommended you contact the site manager/supervisor as a first step towards the resolution. These details are always provided on the builder’s signage at the entry to the construction site. If this does not resolve the matter, or you remain unsatisfied with the outcome, please contact us at the Town.
There are some instances where out of hours construction / night works occur on Stirling Highway, or in close proximity to the railway line, due to the necessity of road closures to ensure pedestrian and worker safety. The Town will ensure affected residents are notified as part of these works.