Local laws about noise nuisance – English

CHAPTER 15 – OTHER CONDUCT LIKELY TO DISTURB PUBLIC COEXISTENCE

Article 56. Purpose and Scope of Regulation

Noise generated in public spaces, areas of public coexistence, or within buildings must be kept within the limits required to ensure peaceful community living. In this regard, the following are considered capable of disturbing public coexistence:

• Excessively loud human voices or other activities carried out directly by individuals;
• Sounds produced by domestic animals;
• Musical instruments and sound-producing devices;
• Household appliances;
• Musical and public-address equipment installed in vehicles.

Article 57. Noise Generated by Individuals

1. Any avoidable activity that produces noise is prohibited, including building work, DIY activities, domestic repairs, or the movement of furniture, particularly between 10:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. the following day, or during any other hours designated as rest periods by the municipal authorities.
2. Shouting, singing, or yelling inside residential buildings is prohibited, especially between midnight and 8:00 a.m. the following day, or during any other hours designated as rest periods by the municipal authorities.
3. Property owners must take all reasonable steps to prevent tenants or occupants of their properties from causing disturbances to neighbouring residents and must inform them of their obligation to comply with the rules of community coexistence.

Article 58. Sound Reproduction Equipment

1. Musical instruments and sound equipment must be operated at a volume that cannot be heard outside the dwelling in which they are located. Under no circumstances may musical instruments be used in private residences between 10:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. the following day, or during any other hours designated as rest periods by the municipal authorities.
2. Notwithstanding the above, where justified by emergency, necessity, or public interest, authorisation for such activities may be granted either generally or on a case-by-case basis.
3. The provisions of this article apply equally to private parties, musical rehearsals and gatherings, whether instrumental or vocal, as well as dance events and rehearsals.

Article 59. Public Festivities, Musical Performances and Vehicle Sound Systems

1. Leisure activities, public entertainments, musical events and festive gatherings held in public spaces, social clubs, associations, or private premises that may cause disturbance to neighbouring residents shall require prior municipal authorisation. The Town Council shall determine the conditions of such authorisation, including permitted noise levels and the authorised start and finish times of the activity.
2. The use of vehicle sound systems at high volume with windows, doors, or boot compartments open is prohibited, as is parking such vehicles with the engine running. The use of portable sound or image reproduction devices to provide entertainment for gatherings of people in public places is likewise prohibited.

Article 60. Penalties

The conduct described in the preceding articles constitutes a minor offence and may be punished by a fine of up to €750.