National Environment Management Authority (NEMA)

"Ensuring Sustainable Development​"

Noise pollution & Vibrations

Allowable noise levels in Uganda vary by area and time of day, with residential areas limited to 50dB during the day and 35dB at night, commercial areas to 75dB during the day and 50dB at night, and industrial areas to 70dB during the day and 60dB at night. See the National Environment (Noise Standards and Control) Regulations of 2003 are the foundational law.

Noise limits by area 





Additional details 

Mixed residential areas: These have a specific limit of 55dB during the day and 45dB at night.

Places of worship and entertainment: For places like churches and discos, the permissible level is 60dB during the day and 40dB at night.

Enforcement: The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) is the governing body, and local councils have the authority to enforce these regulations. Non-compliance can lead to penalties.

Day and night time: The "day" period is defined as 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., and the "night" period is from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Area Day (6 a.m. - 10 p.m.)  Night (10 p.m. - 6 a.m.)
Residential 50dB 35dB
Commercial 75dB 50dB
Industrial 70dB 60dB