The metro reminds residents to be mindful of social activities that might make them fall foul of noise control by-laws and regulations.
Acts that fall within the definition of disturbance of peace, disturbing noise and noise nuisance are prohibited, said metro spokesperson Themba Gadebe.
The abovementioned three acts are accordingly regulated by Ekurhuleni’s Police Services By-laws and Gauteng Noise Control Regulations.
“The regulations make a distinction between disturbing noise and noise nuisance,” Gadebe explained.
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“In order for an act to be defined as disturbing noise, it needs to meet a technical test, such as measuring above the noise level set for that designated zone, or if designated areas are not set, the noise must have risen above the measurement or rating set in the South African Bureau of Standards Publication No. 0103.
“The measurement and rating would require a sound-measuring instrument to make a determination.
“On the other hand, noise nuisance is described as any sound which disturbs or impairs or may disturb or impair the convenience or peace of any person.
“It is a subjective test that depends on the impact the noise causes or may cause on the person hearing that noise.”
He added that disturbing noise, noise nuisance or disturbance of peace may be caused through a manner of driving a vehicle, operating or playing a radio, television set or musical instrument, fireworks, operating a grinder, shouting, singing, etc.
Ekurhuleni’s Police Services By-laws, in addition to the prohibited acts described in the Gauteng Noise Regulations, classify prohibited acts caused through noise or riotous behaviour as disturbance of peace.
Those who contravene the law may face a fine not exceeding R2 000, imprisonment of up to six months or both.
“Before a conviction, the person will be issued with a notice to stop the contravention within a specified period,” Gadebe said.
“The regulations provide for harsher sanctions, such as a fine not exceeding R20 000, imprisonment not exceeding two years or both.
“In case of continued violations, the regulations provide for even further sanctions.
“Those who will be participating in celebrations of whatever nature that involve the generation of noise should be considerate to other residents.
“The metro will not hesitate to deal with those who are reported to have contravened applicable by-laws and regulations,” MMC for Community Services councillor Dora Mlambo said.
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