Noise and nuisance
We set legislation around the control of statutory noise nuisance, with local authorities responsible for controlling and dealing with complaints about noise.
Noise counts as a statutory nuisance if it either:
- unreasonably and substantially interferes with the user or enjoyment of a home or other premises
or
- injures health or is likely to injure health
Find out how to report noise or anti-social behaviour on the mygov.scot website.
Read more information on Scotland’s noise mapping on the Scotland's Noise website.
Statutory provisions
The Public Health etc. (Scotland) Act 2008 updated the provisions of the 1990 Act by introducing new nuisances of light and insects, as well as other changes including how the Act is enforced.
We have issued procedural guidance on the nuisance provisions of the Public Health etc (Scotland) Act 2008.
Other nuisances
Other types of nuisance include odour from waste water treatment works (contact Scottish Water to make a complaint) and light pollution.
Light pollution describes artificial light that is excessive or has an adverse effect on the environment. There are currently no measures in place for controlling or complaining about light pollution but you can find more information on the Commission for Dark Skies website.
Contact
Email enquiries to: environment.protection.team@gov.scot