Construction or demolition noise

Construction or demolition activities are inherently noisy, but it is usually possible to reduce the noise to an acceptable level and also ensure noisy work is not undertaken at unreasonable times.

In some cases, noise caused from DIY works or from the type of equipment being used will be sufficiently loud or go on for so long that the hours for noisy works for construction sites should be followed.  Examples include work that would not typically be undertaken by the average person.

What we will do

Where we receive a complaint about construction or demolition and consider the noise is not reasonable or is being undertaken at an unreasonable time, we will discuss with the site steps to reduce or eliminate the problem or we may serve a formal notice imposing requirements and/or restrictions. Failure to adhere to this notice may result in legal proceedings.

Normally noisy works should take place only within the following times:

• Monday - Friday 8am to 6pm.
• Saturday 8am to 1pm.
• Sundays and Bank Holidays - no noisy operations.

There are exceptions to the above such as emergency works or special circumstances where noisy works outside of the normal working hours may be justified. In such instances you may apply for a Section 61 consent.

What is a Section 61 consent?

This is where a building contractor or representative can apply for a prior consent for works under Section 61 of the Control of Pollution Act 1974. The application details how noise is to be managed on-site. The underlying principle is that Best Practicable Means (BPM) is being adopted. This has a legal definition but in summary requires the person/s issued with the consent to minimise noise and vibration resulting from their operations and to do so through the appropriate selection of plant, construction methods and programming.

Application for Section 61 consent

Section 61 consent application form

Further information

The control of pollution and noise from demolition and construction sites - code of practice (PDF - 11.32 MB) and the London Good Practice Guide: Noise and Vibration Control for Demolition and Construction gives advice to developers and contractors  to make sure they carry out works to reduce the impact of the work to local residents.

If you wish to make a complaint about construction noise outside of the permitted hours, you need to contact the out of hours service.