Construction permission and times

This statement expects local planning authorities to respond positively to requests for flexibility in the operation of construction sites. This will support the sector’s recovery to pre-February 2020 levels.

It may be necessary to take action where there's a sustained disturbance outside of the hours contained within a planning consent, particularly where this affects sleep.

We'll also consider:

the impact
how long it lasts
any effort made to manage or mitigate the disturbance

Permitted working hours

We may approve requests to temporarily extend construction working hours. Permitted working hours can be increased until 9 p.m., Monday through Saturday, unless there are very good reasons against this.

Sundays and Bank Holidays remain non-working days.

Sometimes work has to happen outside these hours. This would normally only be emergency work, either:

to restore services
where there are safety concerns about working during the day, like on train tracks

Where possible, the person responsible should contact the noise team to let them know as far in advance as possible. You should also notify surrounding residents and businesses.

These times do not apply to DIY, but we can still investigate noise from DIY and would ask you to think about your neighbours.

Apply for prior consent for construction work

Contractors can apply for prior consent for their works. This allows us to agree on times and methods of work with the contractor.

If the contractor follows the agreement, it usually prevents any legal action about noise from work.

Complete an application form to apply for prior consent for construction work and send it in an email to ehl.environmentalprotection@brighton-hove.gov.uk.

For more information phone 01273 294 266.

Reduce the risk of complaints

To reduce the risk of complaints, contractors should:

inform and consult local residents about work
give the name of a person on site who can answer any questions