Party patrols tackle noisy neighbours

Summer parties and noisy events will be targeted with a month of 'Party Patrols', starting this weekend (Saturday 23 July).

With warmer days, longer evenings and the holiday season coming, council officers will have the power to issue warnings or confiscate stereo equipment if a party is creating an unreasonable disturbance.

We often find an increase in noise complaints around this time of year. To nip nuisance behaviour in the bud, Party Patrols will be in operation between 6pm and 2am from 23 July to the end of August 2022.

They will be checking events to see that noise is kept to a reasonable level, using noise monitoring equipment, and making sure that any businesses have the correct license if they choose to host a party.

Cllr Harbi Farah, Cabinet Member for Safer Communities and Public Protection: "After the last few years I want every resident to rightly enjoy the summer. Whilst we want people to have fun, disturbing others at unsociable times can be a nightmare for neighbours.

Avoid a visit from the Party Patrol with these tips from our Noise Nuisance team:

• tell your neighbours in advance of your plans - or better still, invite them
• keep noise to a reasonable level at all times. It's a common misconception that you are allowed to play loud music before 11pm - the law actually requires neighbourly and considerate behaviour at all times. It is a good idea to turn music right down after 11pm and to close windows and doors.
• It's difficult to control music noise when you are outside in the open, so avoid speakers in the garden
• ask guests to leave quietly after the party - no shouting, revving of car engines, or sounding of car horns
• businesses looking to host a party must seek permission from their local authority if they are not already licensed for activities like music and the consumption of alcohol. If you're unsure whether you need a license, please contact the team at business.licence@brent.gov.uk

To report noise nuisance, download the Noise App. Our out-of-hours emergency service has recently changed to meet the increased demand at weekends. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, officers will be on hand to help between 6pm and 2am. If it can't wait, please call 020 8937 1234 and press option 3 for Emergencies.