How To File A Noise Pollution Complaint: Legal Steps And Guidelines In India

Noise pollution has become a significant environmental and public health issue, disrupting daily life and affecting both mental and physical well-being. Whether it's loudspeakers, industrial noise, vehicular honking, or construction activities, the growing levels of noise pollution demand immediate action.

If you're wondering how to file a noise pollution complaint in India, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps to address the issue effectively. From understanding the laws governing noise pollution to knowing your rights, permissible noise levels, and legal remedies, this blog covers everything you need to protect your peace and the environment.

Learn how to report noise violations to the police, municipal authorities, or online platforms and explore the enforcement measures and penalties for offenders. Take action today to combat noise pollution and contribute to a quieter, healthier community.

What is Noise Pollution?

Noise pollution refers to unwanted or harmful sounds that disrupt the environment and adversely affect human health, wildlife, and the overall ecological balance. The intensity of noise is measured in decibels (dB), and excessive noise can lead to serious issues such as hearing loss, stress, and sleep disorders.

Common Sources Of Noise Pollution

Common sources of noise pollution are as follows -

1. Loudspeakers - Often used for social events, religious functions, political gatherings, or festivals.
2. Industrial Activities - Manufacturing units, heavy machinery, and other industrial operations.
3. Vehicular Noise - Traffic congestion, excessive honking, and modified exhaust systems.
4. Construction Work - Activities like drilling, welding, and the use of heavy equipment.
5. Domestic Sources - Loud music, parties, and household appliances like grinders.

Permissible Noise Levels In India

The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has established noise level standards under the Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000. These levels vary based on the area or zone -

*Silent zones include areas around hospitals, schools, courts, and other sensitive institutions.

Laws Governing Noise Pollution In India

Laws governing noise pollution in India are as follows -

Noise Pollution (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2000

This is the primary legislation specifically targeting noise pollution. Key features include:

1. Zone-specific noise limits: Sets permissible noise levels for residential, commercial, industrial, and silence zones during day and night (as per the Schedule).
2. Use of loudspeakers (Rule 5): Amplified sound/loudspeakers require prior written permission and are prohibited between 10:00 pm and 6:00 am, except within closed premises (e.g., auditoria, conference rooms, community halls) or during a public emergency.
3. Festival relaxations (Rule 5(3)): State Governments/District Authorities may, via notification and subject to conditions, allow use of loudspeakers up to 12:00 am on cultural/religious/festive occasions for a limited duration not exceeding 15 days in a calendar year.
4. Authority and enforcement: Empowers designated authorities (e.g., District Magistrate/Police Commissioner) and SPCBs/PCCs to enforce standards and take action (warnings, seizure, prosecution) against violators. (Source)

Environment Protection Act, 1986

This umbrella legislation provides the framework to address various forms of pollution, including noise.

1. Preventive Measures - Authorities can issue directives to shut down or regulate activities causing excessive noise.
2. Penalties (EPA Section 15) - For violations of notified noise standards, courts may impose up to 5 years’ imprisonment and/or ₹1,00,000 fine, plus ₹5,000 per day for continuing offences; if the breach continues beyond one year after conviction, imprisonment may extend to 7 years.
3. Delegation of Powers - Empowers state governments and local bodies to frame rules for noise control in their regions.

Also Read : Environmental laws in India

Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS): Public Nuisance Provisions

With the BNS replacing the IPC (effective July 1, 2024), noise-related public nuisance references should cite BNS instead of IPC.

1. Section 270 – Public Nuisance (Definition): Covers acts or illegal omissions that cause common injury, danger, or annoyance to the public or people in the vicinity, or that necessarily cause obstruction or annoyance to persons exercising a public right. Excessive or persistent noise can fall within this definition.
2. Section 292 – Punishment for Public Nuisance (when not otherwise provided): Provides for a fine up to ₹1,000 where a public nuisance is committed and no specific, higher penalty is prescribed under another provision.

Motor Vehicles Act, 1988

This act addresses noise pollution stemming from vehicular sources.

1. Horn Restrictions - Limits the use of horns in silent zones and prohibits unnecessary honking.
2. Modified Vehicles - Regulates the use of modified exhaust systems or other alterations that increase noise levels.
3. Penalties - Imposes fines on drivers or vehicle owners violating these rules.

The Factories Act, 1948

This act focuses on noise pollution within industrial premises.

1. Workplace Noise Standards - Prescribes permissible noise levels to safeguard workers from hearing loss and other health hazards.
2. Obligations for Employers - Requires factory owners to implement measures like soundproofing, regular equipment maintenance, and the provision of protective gear to employees exposed to high noise levels.

These laws collectively aim to curb noise pollution, safeguard public health, and promote a quieter, more harmonious environment.

Also Read : Understanding Nuisance in Tort

How To File A Noise Pollution Complaint

Here’s how you can file a noise pollution complaint -

Filing A Police Complaint

To address noise complaints, contact the local police (100 or in person), provide specific details about the disturbance, request immediate action, and follow up with a complaint reference number if the issue continues.

1. Contact the Local Police Station - Dial the police helpline (100) or visit your local police station to report the issue.
2. Provide Specific Details - Mention the source of the noise, its intensity, frequency, and the exact location.
3. Request Immediate Action - The police can intervene, issue warnings, or confiscate equipment causing the disturbance.
4. Follow Up - Ensure you obtain a complaint reference number for tracking. If the problem persists, escalate it to senior officers or lodge a formal grievance.

Approaching Local Authorities

To address noise pollution, file a written complaint with evidence (recordings, videos) detailing the noise's duration and pattern to the relevant authority: Municipal Corporation (domestic, construction), State Pollution Control Board (industrial, commercial), or local Ward Office.

1. Municipal Corporation - File a complaint with your local municipal office regarding disturbances from loudspeakers, construction, or domestic noise.
2. State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) - SPCBs handle noise pollution complaints related to industrial and commercial activities.
3. • Submit a written complaint with evidence such as audio recordings or videos.
   • Provide the duration and pattern of noise to strengthen your case.
3. Ward Offices - Approach the local ward officer or councillor for support in resolving noise-related grievances.

Using Online Portals

India’s digital channels make it faster to file and track noise complaints. Use these paths:

1. CPCB Grievance (Noise category): File your complaint on the Central Pollution Control Board’s online form. It is routed automatically to the relevant State Pollution Control Board (e.g., DPCC in Delhi) based on your location.
2. • Provide address, source/type of noise, and dates/times.
   • Upload short video/audio and photos as evidence.
   • Save the acknowledgement/complaint number for follow-up.
2. State PCB Portals: Many states run their own complaint systems. Examples include Delhi’s Noise Grievance Management System (NGMS) / DPCC noise page, MPCB (Maharashtra) complaint portal, and KSPCB (Karnataka) grievance cell. Availability and workflows vary by state.
3. Police Apps & Portals (state-specific): Several police departments accept noise complaints via their official apps/portals. Examples: the Tatpar Delhi Police app; Mumbai Police’s loudspeaker permission portal (also useful for enforcement context); Mumbai Traffic Police app for traffic-noise related issues. Check your state’s official police website/app store listing.
4. ERSS 112 (alongside 100): For swift dispatch or after-hours amplified sound, use the ERSS 112 helpline or the “112 India” mobile app; 100 remains operational in many areas. Mention Rule 5 (10:00 pm–6:00 am amplified-sound ban) when relevant.
5. Social media escalation: Tag the official handles of local police, municipal bodies, or SPCB on platforms like X (Twitter) with your complaint number and evidence. Treat this as an escalation—not a substitute for filing through CPCB/SPCB or police channels.

What Are Legal Remedies & Enforcement?

Here’s what you can do if your complaint does not have the desired effect -

1. Approach the National Green Tribunal (NGT) -
2. • File a petition with the NGT under the Environment Protection Act, 1986.
   • NGT can issue orders to curb excessive noise and impose penalties on violators.
2. Civil Litigation -
3. • File a civil suit for nuisance if the noise pollution significantly impacts your quality of life.
   • Seek damages or an injunction to prevent recurring noise disturbances.
3. Criminal Proceedings -
4. • Under the IPC, Sections 268 (public nuisance) and 290 (punishment for nuisance) provide avenues for criminal complaints.
   • Repeated violations can lead to fines or imprisonment for offenders.
4. Implementation of Noise Monitoring Devices -
5. • Authorities often install noise monitoring devices in areas prone to high noise levels. These devices help gather data for enforcement actions.
5. Confiscation and Fines -
6. • Police and municipal authorities can seize loudspeakers or other equipment exceeding permissible limits.
   • Violators may face fines ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹1,00,000, depending on the severity of the offense and applicable laws.

Recent Court Judgments on Noise Pollution in India

• Bombay High Court (January 2025): Ruled loudspeakers are not an essential part of any religion, ordered strict enforcement of noise rules, and upheld the right to peaceful living. Source
• National Green Tribunal – Pune (August 2025): Directed Pune Police and Pollution Control Board to enforce noise limits during Ganesh Festival, require real-time monitoring, cap loudspeakers at 100 Watts, list violators online, and set up a complaint helpline. Source
• Supreme Court – Delhi Airport (September 2025): Ordered expedited hearings by NGT for airport noise pollution cases, demanded compliance with noise standards for aircraft operations, and reinforced residents’ rights to noise control. Source
• General Principle (multiple courts, 2025): Courts consistently reaffirmed that noise pollution contravenes Article 21 (right to life), requiring authorities to take proactive, stringent action, especially during festivals and public events. Source

Conclusion

Tackling noise pollution protects public health, restores daily peace, and supports a healthier urban environment. If you’re facing a disturbance—especially amplified sound after 10:00 pm—take action: call 112 (ERSS) or 100, record brief evidence, and file an online complaint via the CPCB grievance (Noise) or your State PCB portal.

When first-line complaints don’t resolve the issue, you can escalate: seek administrative enforcement (police/municipal/SPCB), approach the National Green Tribunal (NGT), or pursue civil remedies for nuisance. Remember that permissions and festival relaxations are state/district-specific, so always check the latest local notification.

With informed steps and timely reporting, we can reduce excessive noise and build quieter, healthier communities.

Note: This article is for general information only and is not legal advice. Consider consulting a qualified lawyer for case-specific guidance.

Sources & References

• Noise Pollution (Regulation & Control) Rules, 2000 — consolidated rules & Rule 5 (night ban, permissions, festival relaxations). CPCB: Noise Pollution | Rules PDF (Govt. site)
• Ambient Noise Standards (Schedule) — zone-wise limits (Residential 55/45 dB; Commercial 65/55 dB; Industrial 75/70 dB; Silence 50/40 dB). CPCB Noise Report (standards table)
• Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 — §15 penalties (up to 5 years’ imprisonment and/or ₹1,00,000; +₹5,000/day for continuing offences; up to 7 years if continuing >1 year after conviction). IndiaCode: EPA, 1986 (official text)
• Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023 — replaces IPC (public nuisance & penalties used when special laws don’t apply). IndiaCode: BNS (Act 45 of 2023) | BNS PDF | §292: Punishment for public nuisance
• CPCB Grievance (Noise category) — online complaint form that routes to the relevant State PCB/DPCC. File a CPCB complaint
• ERSS 112 (Emergency Response Support System) — national helpline & mobile app. 112.gov.in | Download “112 India” app
• State/City examples — for local workflows and portals:
• • Delhi: Noise Grievance Management System (NGMS) | DPCC
  • Mumbai: Mumbai Police Loudspeaker Permission