Local nuisance

What is a local nuisance?

A local nuisance is something that has an adverse impact on or interferes with the enjoyment of people in the area of that nuisance.

Some examples of a local nuisance are:

• Noise from air conditioners, swimming pool pumps, lawnmowers and power tools
• Dust and noise from development and building sites
• Smoke from wood heaters
• Unconstrained, stockpiled or derelict rubbish, waste and vegetation
• Partially demolished or abandoned dwellings

Local councils have a role in guiding the community in local nuisance prevention and handling complaints when it does occur.

How to report a local nuisance

Speak to the person

Initially, you should try and discuss your concerns with the people (e.g. neighbours) from where the nuisance is coming from, as they may not be aware of the effect they are having on others. This is often the quickest way to find a solution.

Contact the body corporate

If the nuisance is coming from premises which are subject to the rules and regulations of a Body Corporate or Strata Group, you may wish to also contact the Body Corporate or Strata Group directly, as the nuisance is likely to be a breach of their rules and regulations.

Reporting a nuisance

Generally, Council will become involved if an issue within the Community cannot be resolved. Council will then try to work with the person causing the alleged nuisance to try and resolve the matter.

It is assumed the relevant fact sheet has been reviewed prior to a complaint being made.

You can contact the Council in the following ways:

• Completing one of the Council’s nuisance service request forms, including as much information as possible:
  • Audible Bird Scaring Device
  • Dust
  • Noise
  • Odour
  • Projection of promotional or offensive image
  • Smoke
  • Unsightly Conditions
  • Vibration
• Emailing the Council at mail@campbelltown.sa.gov.au.
• Calling the Council on 8366 9222 between 8.45am and 5.00pm Monday to Friday.
• Writing to the Council at Local Nuisance & Litter Complaint, 172 Montacute Road, Rostrevor SA 5073.

If you would like more information on the process please see the attached guide Council Procedure - Managing Nuisance & Litter Complaints.

Reporting a nuisance after hours

To report a nuisance outside of Monday to Friday 8.45am to 5pm, please contact SA Police on 131 444 if you require action at that time.

If the nuisance is serious

If the nuisance has the potential for serious or material environmental harm you should contact the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) directly on 8204 2004 24/7 or email: epainfo@epa.sa.gov.au.

Construction noise

Construction noise with an adverse impact on amenity must not occur:

• on a Sunday or other public holiday, and
• on any other day except between 7 am and 7 pm.

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Factsheets

To provide information on specific aspects of the Local Nuisance and Litter Control Act 2016, a series of fact sheets has been developed by the Local Government Authority for use by Councils and the Community. These fact sheets can be found on the LGA Local Nuisance and Litter Control website.

Exemptions

The Act allows Councils to consider granting an exemption from local nuisance-causing activities. These exemptions involve conditions to minimise the impact of the nuisance.