Construction noise

Noise nuisance

Construction and demolition work can only be carried out within specified hours  or with permission from the Council. This includes all work undertaken by electricity, gas and water companies as well as our own council departments. The construction industry is aware that all work should be undertaken using the quietest equipment available, although it's not possible to make some work (e.g. drilling) any quieter than it already is.

Businesses that wish to carry out noisy work outside of normal working hours (particularly on Sundays, evenings or early mornings) must get permission from the Southwark Noise Team before the work starts.

Apply to carry out work out of hours.

What the law says

Under the Control of Pollution Act 1974, the council can impose requirements as to what times noisy work may be carried out, and the methods of work used.

In Southwark these times are:

• Monday to Friday - 8am to 6pm
• Saturday - 8am to 1pm
• Sundays and Bank Holidays - No Working

Permission may be granted for work to take place outside these hours, e.g. Police traffic restrictions, special site works (crane erection etc.), emergencies.

How we can help

If you have a particular concern about a construction site you can discuss this with the noise team. You may also want to view the Code of Construction Practice. This code contains the points mentioned above in more detail and has details of other environmental disturbances. 

If you are disturbed by noise, please call the council's Noise team whilst it is happening on 020 7525 5777

Noise and Nuisance officers will visit as soon as possible to serve a notice if a construction site is operating outside the agreed hours or not using best practice to reduce noise pollution.

Environmental Code of Construction Practice

Southwark Council has pioneered a code of practice targeted at the construction industry. It aims to make construction companies aware of the rules that must be followed and encourages the industry to ensure that as little impact as possible is made on the surrounding environment and community.