Pollution

Noise, air and water pollution impacts the health of residents and the amenity of the neighbourhood. Multiple levels of government work together to protect the environment and enforce the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997.

  
 

Use the EPA NSW pollution reporting tool to find the best authority to notify if you notice pollution. If the pollution incident is an emergency, call 000.


If there is a minor but consistent pollution occurrence e.g. a builder hosing paint down a stormwater drain, keeping an accurate diary and evidence of the pollution incidents (photos, video) can assist the relevant government authority can act.

Noise pollution – household or business

There are time restrictions on neighbourhood noise listed on the EPA website (see ‘Dealing with neighbourhood noise’ fact sheet). If a household or business is making excessive noise or noise out of hours, attempt to resolve matters directly if safe to do so.

If unsuccessful, refer to the EPA’s noise guide on who to contact, whether that be the local police, Liquor & Gaming NSW (for pubs/clubs), Transport for NSW or Council. For most non-urgent noise pollution incidents, Lodge a Request with Council using the ‘other’ category.

For ongoing noise issues, refer to the EPA’s guidance including the potential of contacting the Community Justice Centre.

Noise pollution – construction site

If a construction site is operating outside of hours, contact the ‘private certifier’ whose details will be listed on signage at the site. If they do not respond or address the concern, Lodge a Request with Council using the ‘other’ category or email a completed ‘Record of noise nuisance occurrences’ form.

Water pollution

For fresh water (drinking water) contamination concerns on private or public land contact Sydney Water. Fresh water leaks on private property are the individual owner’s responsibility to remedy, however fresh water leaks on public land can be referred to Sydney Water.

For sewage concerns on public land, contact Sydney Water. Property owners are responsible for maintaining the sewage network servicing their property that is contained within their private land. If a private owner is failing to remedy a sewage issue on their private property, Lodge a Request with Council using the ‘other’ category.

For stormwater or beach water concerns, Lodge a Request with Council using the ‘other’ category.

Air pollution

For air pollution related to a specific location/property such as domestic wood fires, backyard burning, smoke or odour, Lodge a Request with Council using the ‘other’ category or email a completed ‘Record of air pollution nuisance occurrences’ form.

Beyond these air pollution incidents, there are a variety of government bodies that can assist – refer to the EPA NSW guide.

Removal of asbestos must be done in accordance with Council’s Asbestos Policy. For more information about safe asbestos removal, see the Asbestos Awareness and Australian Government websites.

Waste pollution

Report illegal dumping to Council, including dumped vehicles – see more information.

For other kinds of waste pollution, refer to the EPA NSW guide.