As the UK gears up for a warm and sunny weekend with temperatures expected to reach 24C, homeowners are being urged to think twice before turning up the volume in their gardens. From housewarmings and birthdays to casual barbecues, garden parties are a popular way to enjoy the sunshine. Experts, however, are warning that excessive noise from garden parties, barbecues, and even lawn mowing could lead to hefty fines of up to £5,000 under UK environmental law.
Excessive noise, particularly after 11 pm and before 7 am, and excessive smoke or smells from barbecues or bonfires can be considered statutory nuisances. Matthew Lock, director of luxury garden furniture specialists Eterna Home said: “Spells of warm weather see many of us take to our gardens and outdoor spaces to enjoy soaring temperatures. However, it’s important that we are always considerate of our neighbours when spending time in our gardens and making too much noise can land you in trouble.
“Failing to be respectful so can not only cause problems with your immediate neighbours due to noise pollution, but with the authorities, too. In extreme cases, a council may consider it to a be a statutory nuisance and issue a noise abatement order. Breaking a noise abatement order in our homes and gardens can result in a fine of up to £5,000.
“Our gardens and outdoor spaces are great places for us to relax with family and friends, or enjoy time alone, during spells of nice weather but if your enjoyment infringes on your neighbours’ right to enjoy their own peace or enjoyment, then the right thing to do is keep noise at an appropriate level.”
According to the Environmental Protection Act 1990, a statutory noise nuisance is anything that unreasonably and substantially interferes with the use or enjoyment of someone’s home or property and could injure health or is likely to do so.
An abatement notice will be issued to the person responsible for the statutory nuisance to instruct the person to stop or limit the activity causing the nuisance, and may include actions to reduce the issue.
If a nuisance continues after an abatement notice has been issued, you could be fined up to £5,000 for individuals, and £20,000 for businesses.
If a noise complaint is serious enough, the council can also seize equipment like stereo systems on the night of the party.
Under UK law, the party host, not the guests, is responsible for any noise complaints. This means that if your celebration gets too loud, especially from 11 p.m. to 7 a.m., you could face enforcement action.
Various councils, including the Ipswich council website, advise informing neighbours about your plans a week in advance, either in person or by letter, and considering anyone who may be affected, including those in neighboring flats.
Be mindful of noise levels, check periodically, and ensure speakers are positioned away from walls and windows to minimise disturbance.