Noise pollution in the private sector
Do you feel annoyed by noise in your private sphere? Find out about the legal provisions and what you can do about it.
Basic information
The subject area of noise regularly proves to be complex because each of us perceives noise differently. Noises that one person considers to be acceptable may be perceived as unacceptable by the next person. Whether you evaluate sounds as noise depends not only on your personal perception but also on what information you have about the source or cause of the sounds.
Please note that noises from children playing are part of everyday life and do not constitute noise pollution.
Department 10 - General Regulatory Affairs - only provides information and advice in this area.
Notes on night-time and so-called midday rest
The night (10 p.m. to 6 a.m.) is considered to be particularly sensitive to noise, which is why the noise level during this period should be lower than during the day. This also applies to Sundays and public holidays. On the other hand, the midday quiet period - which is often assumed to occur between 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. - does not exist under federal law. If your lease or house rules stipulate a midday rest period under private law, please contact your property management company or the person renting the property if you have any questions or have any violations.
Legal rest periods for garden equipment and machinery
Please note that certain devices and machines are subject to a legal rest period according to § 4 BremImSchG. You can find the details under "Further notes" in the "Procedures" tab."
The operating regulations do not apply in commercial and industrial areas.
