Builders in developed areas like Melbourne’s inner suburbs should be aware of new residential building noise requirements, introduced by the State Government to support the live music industry.

Traditionally, noisy venues like pubs and clubs have been required to ensure noise does not impact nearby residents.

However, the new reforms will see the introduction of the “agent of change” principle, making developers responsible for noise mitigation features for new residential sites constructed near existing live music venues.

The policy means builders, developers or applicants in such cases will be required to show what noise mitigation features will be included in new homes as a condition of obtaining planning approval.

The Department of Transport, Planning and Local Infrastructure has developed a practice note for practitioners to guide this process or you can check out the new Building Amendment (Live Music) Regulations 2014 for more information.

A $500,000 noise attenuation assistance fund for venues in heritage buildings not helped by the agent of change laws will also be available to assist with expensive sound proofing.

For more information contact our Building Services team on (03) 9411 4555.