Noise from Construction Sites

Construction sites within Aberdeen City are a necessary factor for the growth and development of the city. Unfortunately, during the demolition and construction stages, they are inherently noisy and can disturb people nearby whether in their homes or businesses.

Types of Complaints

Common complaints received by Aberdeen City comprise of:

• Noisy work early in the morning / late at night / during the weekends
• Running generators unnecessarily.
• Sitting and operating generators or pumps near to noise-sensitive premises
• Early morning deliveries
• Idling vehicle engines

Legislation and Codes of Practice

Aberdeen City Council has developed a guide for contractors about construction site noise (see attached – Construction Site Noise – Guide for Contractors).

All works on construction sites must employ Best Practicable Means as defined by Section 72 of the Control of Pollution Act 1972 to minimise the effects of noise and vibration and should follow the guidelines given in "BS5228 - Noise Control on Construction and Open Sites ".

Restrictions

Noisy work on construction sites within Aberdeen City is restricted to the hours below. In certain circumstances, exceptions may be made to these hours only with prior agreement with the Pollution Section.

• Monday to Friday: 07:00 – 19:00
• Saturday: 09:00 – 16:00
• Sunday: No noisy work audible at the site boundary

Complaint Procedure

Officers from the Pollution Section of Environmental Health can investigate complaints about construction sites and take necessary action. It is the policy of the Pollution Section to resolve complaints informally, however formal legal action can be taken where there is no co-operation.

If you wish to make a complaint about a construction site or obtain general advice, please contact (01224) 523737 or email poll@aberdeencity.gov.uk

You can report noise issues by using the online  Fault Reporting form.

Back to the Noise Control page.