DUST
Sand drift and dust problems can be a nuisance to the community. Most problems with sand drift and dust arise from subdivision developments, building sites, brick cartage trucks, land clearing, industrial properties, road works, excavation sites, landfill sites and storms.
Dust control is particularly important in dry weather due to the increase in winds, drying out rates, water conservation measures and the reduction in grasses. This information sheet gives you advice on reducing sand drift and dust problems.
As a landowner you are required to prevent sand or dust causing a nuisance, whether it affects private land or Shire land such as verges, footpaths and roads.
Subdivision developments and building sites:
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Subdivision developments and building sites are a major source of sand and dust problems.
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Watering the ground around a subdivision or building site is a quick, effective short-term way of controlling dust due to the storage of materials or vehicles workers moving around the site. However, landowners should apply more environmentally effective methods to manage long-term problems with sand and dust.
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Mulching bare ground with green paper (sometimes containing grass seed) or other acceptable materials is recommended for all sites with the potential to cause dust problems. Lightweight barriers are recommended to discourage unwanted vehicles from driving over mulched areas.
Refer to the Yellow Pages or civil engineering consultants for further advice and names of service providers.
All landowners, whether the property is residential or business, newly established or established, are responsible for sand and dust problems arising from their property.
NOISE
Noise can seriously disrupt peoples live, causing loss of sleep, interference to activities and emotional stress. Fortunately, most complaints can be resolved between neighbours though a direct approach, however, if this is not successful Council’s Environmental Health Officers or local Police can assist.
The Environmental Protection (Noise) Regulations 1997 set prescribed standards for noise so that it is kept to acceptable levels. The noise regulations also define procedures and penalties if the prescribed standards are exceeded. Council’s Environmental Health Officers are authorized persons under the provisions of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 and have been trained in the use of noise monitoring equipment to measure noise levels.
Noise complaints commonly dealt with by Environmental Health Officers are those of a continuous and excessive nature and include air conditioners, swimming pool filters, stereo music, construction noise and power tools.
The noise regulations aim to be fair and some allowances are made in the noise regulations for the use of equipment on residential premises such as power tools, lawn mowers and musical instruments providing the time of day, duration of use and volume is not unreasonable. Construction noise is also exempted providing it is not unreasonable and does not occur before 7.00 am and after 7.00 pm between Monday and Saturday. Construction noise is not allowed on Sundays or Public Holidays without special approval.
Police Officers are also empowered under the noise regulations to deal with noise complaints and should be contacted for after hours complaints particularly when involving noisy parties and antisocial behaviour.
If you wish to lodge a noise complaint you may contact Council’s Health Services on 9290 6666 during office hours. Police Communications should be contacted on 131 444 for complaints involving noisy parties, loud music or disturbances after office hours.