Noise pollution is a growing problem in the City of Joburg and many residents are stumped as to what to do about excessive noise, whether this is due to noisy neighbours or other sources, such as business or industrial activity.
Prohibition of disturbing noise
No person shall make, produce or cause a disturbing noise, or allow it to be made, produced or caused by any person, machine, device or apparatus or any combination thereof. Noise pollution can be described as unwanted or offensive sounds that unreasonably intrude into people’s daily activities. Under most circumstances, intolerable noise will not cause people to complain, but there are circumstances where the volume, extent, or recurrence will cause irritation and frustration.
In industrial areas, the permissible limit is 75 dB for daytime and 70 dB at night. In commercial areas, it is 65 dB and 55 dB, while in residential areas it is 55 dB and 45 dB during daytime and night respectively.
In the case of Prinsloo v Shaw 1938 AD 570 575 the court stated that “…a resident in a town, and more particularly a resident in a residential neighbourhood, is entitled to the ordinary comfort and convenience of his home, and if owing to the actions of his neighbour he is subjected to annoyance or inconvenience greater than that to which a normal person must be expected to submit in contact with his fellow-men, then he has a legal remedy.”
Noise control is governed by the Environmental Conservation Act (Act 73 0f 1989).
The regulations specified in the Act apply at all times and, in Johannesburg, violations can be reported to the JMPD
(Call Centre: 011 758 9650 / Emergencies: 011 758 9621/3/4).
Fines for violations vary, but can be as high as R1,500.00.
Municipal police departments often aren’t aware of these national regulations, so it’s worth having a copy to hand when making a noise complaint
MUSIC NOISE STOP TIMES
Residents have begun weekend parties and in the interest of residents.
MON-FRIDAY 22H30
SAT 23H30
SUN 22H30
CONTACTING JMPD CONTROL ROOM
24 Hr Service
Tel : 011 758 9650
Tel : 011 758 9620
Tel : 011 758 9624
Tel : 011 375 5911
JMPD HOTLINE
Cell : 080 872 3342
More information on noise
A summary of noise control regulations is available here.
Act protects citizens against noise pollution click here
