External noises
In some instances, noise from vehicles and transport can be considered as statutory nuisance.
Vehicle noise
Noise from vehicles can be considered a statutory nuisance if:
- it is a regular occurrence
- comes from the same stationary vehicle on private property
- a car club has gathered and causes noise from entertainment systems or exhausts, persistently
If you’re affected by vehicle noise:
- speak to the driver if safe to do so
- make a note of the date and time, vehicle details (including registration), and a description of the driver
You can also contact Cumbria Police on 101 to report nuisance behaviour.
Transport related noise
We don’t deal with noise from:
- road traffic - managed by traffic management and planning
- aircraft - exempt from statutory noise nuisance, for more information visit the RAF or the Civil Aviation Authority website
- railway vehicles - see further details from Network Rail, generally not enforceable but can report if affecting health
Find more information about Noise from roads, trains or planes on GOV.UK.
Roadworks and utility works
If you're affected by:
- roadworks in your area, contact Cumberland Council as the highways authority
- works carried out by utility companies, contact the relevant company directly
Construction and demolition
Construction and demolition work is often noisy and may cause vibration. Residents should expect some inconvenience if they live near a site.
General working hours for noisy construction:
- Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm
- Saturday 8am to 1pm
- No noisy works on Sundays or Bank Holidays
These times are for guidance only. Operating outside these hours is not automatically illegal.
If noisy work happens outside these hours, usually prior approval has been obtained from the council. Approval is only granted in exceptional circumstances.
For large developments:
- construction management plans may be in place
- contact Planning Enforcement if you believe planning conditions have been breached
Wind turbine noise
Noise from wind turbines may be caused by mechanical issues or a breach of noise related planning conditions.
If you're affected by wind turbine noise:
- contact the owner of the turbine
- allow time to check for mechanical faults or wear
If the problem continues, contact planning enforcement.
Noise may be investigated if it breaches planning conditions or causes a statutory nuisance.
Loudspeakers
Loudspeakers are regulated under Section 62 of the Control of Pollution Act 1974.
There are strict rules about when and where they can be used:
- loudspeakers are not allowed in any street between 9pm and 8am
- limited exceptions for specific services
Use of loudspeakers outside permitted hours may be investigated as a statutory nuisance.
Busking noise
Busking includes activities such as music, dance, or performance art in public spaces. While a licence is not required, those raising money for charity may need a charity collection permit.
Complaints may be investigated if the:
- duration, frequency or volume of the performance is excessive
- noise affects the use or enjoyment of nearby properties
Passing performances or general street activity are not considered a nuisance.
Additional considerations:
- loudspeakers used by buskers are regulated under the Control of Pollution Act 1974
- if the issue involves anti-social behaviour, contact Cumbria Police on 101
Low frequency noise
Low frequency noise, such as a rumble or hum, can be difficult to deal with under statutory nuisance provisions due to its low volume and subtle nature.
Common sources of low frequency noise include:
- electrical systems
- heating systems
- fans or pumps
- machinery
What to consider if you're affected:
- speak to your neighbours to see if they can hear the noise
- try switching appliances on and off to identify the source
- if you're the only person who can hear the noise, consider seeking advice from an audiologist
While we will try to identify an external source, low frequency noise can be complex to investigate and may not always be detectable.