Noise from outdoor concerts
Well organised events are enjoyable for many people. However, consideration should be given to local residents and business living and operating close to where an event is taking place.
Noise disturbance is not just necessarily restricted to music, but can include public address systems, the audience and equipment such as generators, fairground rides etc.
Noise control should form an integral part of the event planning process and there is a Code of Practice on Environmental Noise Control at Concerts available to help organisers manage noise.
If it is a small event with no amplification, it is unlikely to cause unreasonable disturbance. However, for larger events we recommend that organisers:
- Determine suitable noise levels at the perimeter of the location.
- Nominate a Noise Control Person who regularly checks the noise levels during the event at the perimeter and adjusts them as necessary.
- Advise local residents of your planned activities well in advance.
- Give anticipated start and finish times and provide a contact telephone number for the Noise Control Person at the event.
- Advise The Council's Environmental Health Service of the event, including any contact telephone numbers.
The larger the event, if it lasts over several days, occurs frequently or continues past 11pm, the more likely residents will be impacted by the noise and will raise a complaint.
In some circumstances the Council may request an organiser to appoint an Acoustic Consultant to assist in drawing up a Noise Management Plan or request to the licensing authority that conditions to control music levels are added to an entertainment licence.
If a music event is causing you problems which has become unreasonable, we may be able to help.
Initially, we would advise that you contact the company / person responsible to see if a resolution can be found informally.  Often, they are simply unaware of the impact they are having. Where this is not possible, or the situation does not improve, the council can carry out an investigation into the nuisance.
Officers will visit your property to witness the impact and you may be asked to keep a diary of the events or record noise samples.
If the inspection shows that the noise is interfering with the enjoyment of your home and is unreasonable, the company / person responsible will be asked to take preventive measures to reduce the impact.
For further advice on events please contact the Environmental Health Service.
Noise from a concert
Most concerts will require a premises licence to operate (issued under the Licensing Act 2003). This will stipulate the times at which live music can be played and may also list a number of other conditions relating to the prevention of public nuisance; for example, operating to a maximum decibel level.
Where the noise from a concert is deemed to be excessive you can report it here:
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