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Noise and Vibrations Emission Permit The Authority may, on request grant a temporary permit not exceeding three months, allowing emission of noise in excess of established standards for such activities as fireworks, demolitions, firing ranges and specific heavy industry, on such terms and conditions as the Authority may determine. Where an exemption has been granted under subsection (3) of the National Environment Act Cap 181, any person exposed to excessive levels of noise shall be adequately protected in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Authority. APPLY for a Noise and Vibration Emission Permit from the Authority through our online platform ELMIS.
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.
Maximum Permissible Noise Levels for General Environment
The time frame takes into consideration human activity.
Maximum Permissible Noise Levels (Continuous or intermittent noise) from a Factory or Workshop
Noise Levels shall not exceed a Leq of -
(i) Factory/Workshops 85 dB (A)
(ii) Offices 50 dB (A)
(iii) Factory/Workshop Compound 75 dB (A).
Maximum Permissible Noise Levels for Impact or Impulsive Noise
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.
For more refer to schedule 5 of the First Schedule of the The National Environment (Noise Standards And Control) Regulations, 2003.
