Operating noise

Noise pollution caused by industrial and commercial operations must be prevented in accordance with the Federal Immission Control Act (BImSchG). This is regulated in the Technical Instructions on Noise Protection (TA-Lärm). Operators of industrial and commercial facilities are obliged to construct and operate their facilities in such a way that no harmful environmental impacts caused by noise can occur in the neighborhood.

Aircraft noise

In the vicinity of airports, noise from commercial aircraft is a problem, as there is a concentration of aircraft flying at low altitudes and with high engine power. Further information on this can be found in the chapter on aircraft noise. 

Neighborhood noise

... in residential areas or gardens is a private matter! Those affected have the option of asserting their rights in court with the help of an arbitrator or lawyer.

Noise from animals

Pets must be kept in such a way that no one is significantly disturbed by the emissions (noise, smell) they produce. Noise caused by animals is usually the responsibility of the animal owners (private law). Only when the general public is affected do the regulatory authorities intervene.

Machine noise

Within residential areas, according to the Equipment and Machine Noise Protection Ordinance (32. BImSchV), equipment and machines (e.g., lawn mowers and construction machinery) may not be operated on Sundays and public holidays, or on weekdays between 8 p.m. and 7 a.m. For particularly loud equipment such as brush cutters, grass trimmers, grass edge trimmers, leaf blowers, and leaf collectors, additional time restrictions apply on weekdays. As a rule, they may also not be operated between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., and 5 p.m. and 8 p.m.

Noise from sports and leisure facilities

Noise from sports and leisure facilities has been increasing in recent years due to changes in the population's leisure habits. Large events in particular have led to complaints in the past. Another problem is the associated increase in traffic volume. The Sports Facility Noise Protection Ordinance and the "Leisure Noise Decree" set emission limits for these noise sources.

Traffic noise

Road traffic is the main source of pollution in conurbations and is therefore the most frequent cause of nuisance and conflict. If roads are newly built or significantly altered, the Traffic Noise Protection Ordinance stipulates that the emission limits specified therein must be complied with. There is no entitlement to noise remediation. This is possible through subsidy programs for areas where there is very high noise pollution of over 70 dB(A) during the day and over 60 dB(A) at night.

Rail noise is often a problem in densely populated areas, especially at night. If a new railway line is built or a significant change is made to an existing line, residents are entitled to noise protection measures if the limits specified in the Traffic Noise Protection Ordinance are exceeded. As with road traffic, there is no legal entitlement to noise remediation on existing railway lines. Noise remediation on federal railways is carried out on a voluntary basis.