The top sources of noise complaints in Cape Town are places of late-night entertainment, events with amplified sound and residential business/workshop noise.
At the height of load-shedding in 2023, generator noise complaints too increased dramatically.
In the current financial year, the number of complaints is yet again nearing the 2 000 mark.
'Noise ranks as one of the top complaints to City Health. Our specialised health services work to resolve as many complaints as possible, but this is a shared responsibility. It starts with understanding what constitutes noise, how we are potentially contributing to it, and what can be done practically to mitigate the impact on others. It is also important to make a distinction between noise pollution and noise disturbance, as one is the responsibility of law enforcement agencies and the other is the responsibility of City Health,' said Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Francine Higham.
City Health's Noise Control Administration has a team of senior technicians who ensure compliance with the Western Cape Noise Control Regulations (2013), including:
- Considering applications for building plan approvals, business licence approvals, planning approvals or environmental authorisations
- Investigating technical complaints and making determinations through calculations or measurements
- Taking enforcement actions to ensure compliance with permissible noise limits
- Considering and setting conditions for granting exemptions for events, such as concerts where noise is likely to adversely affect the rights or interests of other parties
International Noise Awareness Day is observed annually on the last Wednesday of April, and serves to highlight the risks of noise as a health hazard. It is a call to action to preserve our hearing and enhance our quality of life.
This year's theme, 'Noise-induced Hearing Loss: Permanent Yet Preventable', highlights how you can make a difference.
Simple actions like reducing the volume on your devices can make a significant difference. Encourage those around you to do the same.
- Support Quiet Initiatives
Advocate for policies that reduce noise pollution, such as better zoning laws or quieter street designs. Your involvement can drive change in your community.
Spend time in nature or quiet spaces to alleviate stress and improve mental health. Regular breaks from urban noise can refresh your mind and body.
Educate friends, family, and colleagues about the impact of noise pollution. Sharing information helps raise awareness and promotes a quieter lifestyle.
Every small effort contributes to a greater good. This International Noise Awareness Day, let's pledge to reduce the noise around us and cultivate a quieter, healthier future. Join the movement and make silence a part of our daily rhythm.
The following channels are available to report noise:
Online service request: http://www.capetown.gov.za/servicerequests
Create service request > Category Level 1: Health > Category Level 2: City Health > Category Level 3: Noise Pollution
Tel: 021 444 1418
Email: noise@capetown.gov.za
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