Report a disturbance from trade, commercial or business premises
If you are being regularly disturbed at home by activities from a business, trade or commercial premises, we may be able to investigate.
Many businesses are subject to planning conditions that restrict their operating hours and the level of disturbance they can cause.
You can check planning permissions and conditions on the Planning Portal.
Disturbances reported through other services
Use the relevant service if your complaint relates to:
- Report a noise disturbance
- Report disturbance from bonfire smoke or other smoke
- Report bright artificial light disturbance
Disturbances we may investigate
This service covers certain types of disturbance from trade, business and commercial premises that are not covered by the services above.
This may include:
- dust emissions
- steam emissions
- pungent or offensive odours
- the escape of farmed insects, such as from maggot farms
Some businesses may be exempt from parts of the legislation, and each case must be assessed individually.
Before you report a problem
You should speak to the business or write to them before contacting us.
Many businesses are unaware they are causing a disturbance and will take steps to reduce the impact once they are informed.
You can read our guidance and keep a record of the problem using the odour and dust nuisance information and diary pack (PDF).
What happens next
An Environmental Health Officer will review the information you provide and normally contact you within seven days.
If we believe the issue may require further investigation, we will ask you to complete a diary for three weeks. This helps us understand the nature, frequency and impact of the disturbance.
Report a disturbance from a business
Use the online form below if you are being regularly disturbed at home by a trade, business or commercial premises and the issue is not covered by the services listed above.