Noise we cannot investigate

For a noise problem to be a 'statutory nuisance', it must do one of the following:

• unreasonably and substantially interfere with the use or enjoyment of a home or other premises
• injure health or be likely to injure health

You can read more about what counts as a statutory nuisance and how councils deal with complaints.

Household noise we cannot investigate

Some household noises are not considered to be a statutory nuisance and cannot be investigated. This includes:

• the sound of footsteps
• slamming doors or cupboards
• dropping objects or moving furniture
• children and babies crying
• children playing (including playgrounds)
• talking or laughing coming from inside a home or garden
• the reasonable use of noisy garden equipment such as lawnmowers or leaf blowers
• the reasonable use of washing machines, vacuum cleaners, or kitchen appliances

Street noise we cannot investigate

Some street noise is usual for a busy city. We cannot investigate noise caused by:

• ambulance or police sirens
• essential roadworks and maintenance
• traffic, including engine noise and horns from moving vehicles
• anti-social behaviour in public places (this is a police matter)
• emergency works carried out by utility companies, such as gas leaks, power failures and floods
• political demonstrations and demonstrations about a cause
• bird noises such as seagulls

Aircraft noise we cannot investigate

We cannot investigate noise caused by aircraft (including helicopters). If you experience a problem with aircraft noise, you can contact the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

For issues relating to police helicopters, you can contact the National Police Air Service.