Noise Nuisance from Car Exhausts
This section provides information and advice on making a complaint about noise from car exhausts.
It is possible that noise from car exhausts could constitute a statutory nuisance within the provisions of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 - but this is unlikely.The primary legislation aimed at dealing with such noise is the Motor Vehicle (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986.
These regulations lay down maximum permitted noise levels from exhausts and the regulations are enforced by the police and the Vehicle Inspectorate.
Other legal provision which may be applicable are common law nuisance and section 82 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.
Both of these allow individuals to take their own legal action and may offer a more speedy remedy than we can offer using our powers under the Environmental Protection Act 1990.
Under some circumstances the activity may be controlled by an Anti-Social Behaviour Order (ASBO) which can be obtained from a court by the Community Safety Department or the Police.
However, it should be noted that ASBOs can only be granted by a court all other appropriate legal channels have been tried by the local authority and have failed.
If your concern relates to exhaust noise from a neighbour's vehicle (rather than an unknown person regularly using the road by your house) we would advise you to speak to your neighbours in the first instance. They may be unaware of the degree of disturbance they are causing
Before you make a formal complaint we strongly recommend you read our guidance notes on making a complaint.
Having read the guidance notes, make your complaint online or make your complaint by letter, telephone or email.
We will need to know exactly where the activity is taking place and when it may be witnessed by our officers. Any other information would be helpful.
We would also advise you to make a complaint to the owner of the property from which the disturbance emanates if it is occupied by a tenant.
Reigate & Banstead Borough Council
Town Hall
Castlefield Road
Reigate
RH2 0SH
01737 276000
customer.services@reigate-banstead.gov.uk
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