Noise Complaints

Noise can often cause problems between neighbours. Here are some ways you can reduce these types of problems:

  • Let your neighbours know you are having a party before the event.
  • Give them your contact number in case they need to call you if the noise is disturbing them.
  • Think about when and how loud your children are yelling and screaming. How could it impact others?
  • Play musical instruments during the day behind closed doors, to minimise noise.

NSW Legislation called The Protection of the Environment Operations (Noise Control) Regulation 2017 provides the specific times that articles and equipment must not be heard in a residential premises. These can be found in Part 4 of the Regulation on the NSW Legislation website.

Below is a summary of the times listed in the noise control regulation:

Air conditioners

(i)  before 8 am or after 10 pm on any Saturday, Sunday or public holiday, or 
(ii)  before 7 am or after 10 pm on any other day

Power tools

(i)  before 8 am or after 8 pm on any Saturday, Sunday or public holiday, or
(ii)  before 7 am or after 8 pm on any other day

Pumps and heat pump water heaters

(i)  before 8 am or after 8 pm on any Saturday, Sunday or public holiday, or
(ii)  before 7 am or after 8 pm on any other day

Musical instruments and sound equipment

(i)  before 8 am or after midnight on any Friday, Saturday or day immediately before a public holiday, or
(ii)  before 8 am or after 10 pm on any other day

If the noise is occurring you can contact the City of Ryde Customer Service Centre on 9952 8222 during office hours, email cityofryde@ryde.nsw.gov.au or contact the local police if urgent attention is required after hours (eg loud parties, noisy intruder alarms).

Dealing with Noise

The following information from the NSW EPA provide guidance on dealing with noise problems: