Is it possible for the public to complain about noise? Yes, it is your right

Noise pollution has always been a problem for many residents in Pretoria.

This situation has worsened over time due to a number of businesses, factories and warehouses.

After listening to residents’ complaints Tshwane mayor, Solly Msimanga, has come up with steps to help people report the problem.

Here are the steps on what the public can do if faced with a noisy neighbourhood:

1. Where can one report a noise complaint?

Complaints can be communicated to the municipal health services information desk at the following number: 012 358 4656 or via e-mail:ehonestop@tshwane.gov.za

ALSO READ: Residents up in arms over noise factor

2. How does municipal health services deal with noise complaints?

After a complaint has been received and registered at the municipal health services information desk, a standard operating procedure is followed by the environmental health practitioner to investigate the complaint.

This will include:

· Investigate;

· Validate the complaint;

· Issue a notification on the transgressor;

· Request an affidavit from the complainant;

· When necessary a final notification is issued; and/or

· Legal action may be instituted for non-compliance.

ALSO READ: By-laws to prevent excessive noise

3. From statistical analysis of noise complaints, the following complaints are being received on a regular basis:

· Noise from emergency power generators;

· Noise from pubs, taverns, and shebeens;

· Music related church activities;

· Barking dogs;

· Noisy electromechanical equipment, e.g. compressors, extractor fans; and

· Noise from illegal home industries e.g. use of grinders, power tools, etc.

4. Are you dealing with illegal business premises causing noise?

If yes, these kinds of complaints are investigated and reported to city planning who will act on the zoning in terms of the Tshwane town planning scheme. Municipal health services will investigate the noise aspect. In certain cases, noise measurements will be required. Depending on the outcome of the noise measurement report, legal action might be instituted against the transgressor.

Do you have more information about the story? Please send us an email to editorial@rekord.co.za or phone us on 083 625 4114.

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