Can You call the police about noisy neighbours?

Can You Call the Police about Noisy Neighbors?

The Short Answer: It’s Complicated

The answer to whether you can call the police about noisy neighbors is yes, but with some important caveats. Not all noise disturbances warrant a police response, and there are specific guidelines you should follow before picking up the phone. In this article, we’ll delve into the complexities of calling the police about noisy neighbors and what you can expect when you do.

The Noise Ordinance

Before we get into the details, it’s essential to understand what constitutes a noise disturbance that warrants a police response. Every jurisdiction has its own noise ordinance, which defines what is considered an acceptable level of noise. In most areas, the general noise level is measured at around 60 decibels, which is equivalent to a normal conversation. Any noise above this level can be considered a disturbance, but it’s crucial to note that this level is not always clear-cut.

Types of Noise Disturbances

Not all noise disturbances are created equal. Here are some examples of noise disturbances that might warrant a police response:

• Repetitive or persistent noise: If the noise is continuous and repeated over a prolonged period, it’s more likely to be considered a disturbance.
• Excessive noise at unusual hours: Noise that occurs during unusual hours, such as 11 pm or 1 am, is more likely to be considered a disturbance.
• Noise that disturbs the peace: Noise that disrupts the peaceful enjoyment of your property or annoys others is also a disturbance.

When to Call the Police

If you’re dealing with noisy neighbors, don’t call the police every time you hear a loud noise. It’s essential to follow these guidelines:

• Have multiple neighbors affected: If only one neighbor is complaining, it’s unlikely to warrant a police response. Multiple neighbors must be affected by the noise.
• Contact your neighbors first: Try to resolve the issue with your neighbors by talking to them, either in person or over the phone. Sometimes, they may not be aware of the disturbance.
• Document the disturbance: Keep a record of the noise disturbance, including dates, times, and the level of disturbance. This can be useful evidence if you need to involve law enforcement.

The Police Response

When you do call the police, here’s what you can expect:

• A officer will respond: Depending on the severity of the situation and the availability of officers, a police officer may respond to your call.
• The officer will assess the situation: The officer will assess the situation and determine whether a noise disturbance is occurring and if it’s causing a problem.
• The officer may issue a warning or warning letter: If the officer determines that the noise disturbance is not excessive, they may issue a warning or warning letter to the homeowner or tenant responsible.
• The officer may request a noise level measurement: In some cases, the officer may request a noise level measurement using specialized equipment to determine the level of noise.

Tips for Dealing with Noisy Neighbors

Dealing with noisy neighbors can be frustrating, but there are some tips you can follow to minimize the impact:

• Keep the lines of communication open: Communication is key in resolving issues with noisy neighbors. Try to maintain a friendly relationship and discuss the issue calmly.
• Use earplugs or white noise: Earplugs or white noise can help reduce the impact of noise disturbances.
• Consider mediation: Mediation services can be available to help resolve issues between neighbors.

Conclusion

Calling the police about noisy neighbors should be a last resort and not a first response. By following the guidelines outlined above and understanding the noise ordinance, you can effectively resolve the issue and minimize disruptions to your daily life. Remember to keep a record of the disturbance, document any communications with your neighbors, and try to maintain a positive relationship. If all else fails, law enforcement may be able to provide additional assistance.

Table: Noise Ordinance by Decibel Level

Note: Decibel levels may vary depending on the jurisdiction.