Noise pollution and antisocial noise

We investigate complaints about excessive noise, and can take action if we consider the noise to be a statutory nuisance.

Noise from someone's house

You can report antisocial behaviour or call the police on 101.

Noise from commercial properties

If noise is affecting the way you live we can investigate to see if:

• a statutory nuisance exists
• there has been a breach of licensing conditions
• if any enforcement is appropriate.

You will need to tell us:

• the source of the noise
• the nature and frequency of it
• how it affects the way you live. 

Noise from construction and demolition

The Control of Pollution Act 1974 allows Midlothian Council to restrict times during which construction and demolition work may be carried out. 

In noise sensitive areas (such as schools, hospitals, homes, day-care and long-term care facilities, churches, and libraries) operating hours should be:

• Monday to Friday: 7am to 7pm
• Saturday: 7am to 1pm
• Sunday: No noisy operations

In exceptional circumstances work outwith these hours may be unavoidable.  If this is the case the construction site operator should consult with Environmental Health before starting work and notify local residents.

In all cases the best practicable means for minimising noise must be used (according to guidance in BS 5228: Noise Control on Construction and Open Sites) for example:

• The quietist plant and/or machinery should be selected. Where appropriate it must be constructed to meet the requirements of EEC Directives.
• All equipment should be maintained in good order and fitted with appropriate silencers, mufflers or acoustic covers.
• Stationary noise sources should be sited as far as possible from noise sensitive developments and, where required, acoustic barriers should be used to shield them.
• Any piling should be carried out by the method causing the minimum level of noise and vibration whilst being appropriate for site conditions.
• The movement of construction  lorries to and from the site must be controlled and should not take place outwith the permitted hours unless with prior approval.