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SA Noise Policy Explained | Assigned Noise Levels
The Environment Protection (Commercial and Industrial Noise) Policy 2023 (SA) establishes the framework for assessing noise generated by commercial and industrial activities in South Australia.
The policy introduces Assigned Noise Levels (ANLs), which are used to determine acceptable noise limits at sensitive receivers such as residential properties, schools, hospitals and other noise-sensitive land uses. Businesses, industrial facilities and proposed developments may be required to demonstrate compliance with these noise limits as part of planning approvals, environmental assessments or ongoing operational requirements.
Understanding how Assigned Noise Levels apply to a site is a critical part of environmental noise assessment. Applicable noise criteria can vary depending on land use zoning, surrounding receivers, time of day and site-specific circumstances.
AACG assists developers, businesses, industrial operators and project teams with acoustic assessments and compliance reporting to evaluate noise emissions against applicable South Australian environmental noise requirements and support informed project decision-making.
Assessment of proposed developments to support planning approvals and council submissions.
Assessment of environmental and operational noise impacts associated with residential, commercial and industrial developments.
Assessment of air conditioners, HVAC systems, cooling towers, exhaust systems and other building services equipment.
Assessment of proposed developments to support planning approvals and council submissions.
Assessment of floor impact noise, airborne sound insulation and acoustic compliance issues within residential buildings.
Assessment of aircraft, road traffic and rail noise affecting residential and commercial developments.
What Are Assigned Noise Levels?
Assigned Noise Levels (ANLs) are environmental noise criteria established under the Environment Protection (Commercial and Industrial Noise) Policy 2023 (SA).
They are used to determine the maximum acceptable noise level that may be received at a noise-sensitive location from a commercial or industrial noise source.
ANLs are typically applied to:
Commercial developments
Industrial facilities
Manufacturing operations
Mechanical plant and HVAC systems
Warehouses and distribution centres
Entertainment and hospitality venues
Infrastructure and utility projects
Existing operational businesses
A DA that includes commercial or industrial activities
Council requests supporting acoustic documentation
EPA compliance requirements apply
Mechanical plant or HVAC systems are proposed
Industrial operations may affect nearby residential properties
Noise complaints or compliance investigations occur
Related Applicable SA Standards & Requirements
National Construction Code 2025
SA Planning and Design Code
Association of Australasian Acoustical Consultants (AAAC) Guideline for Child Care Centre Acoustic Assessment
Ministerial Building Standard MBS 010
Project review and scope confirmation
Site inspection
Noise monitoring and background noise assessment
Acoustic modelling
Compliance assessment and mitigation strategy
Report preparation
Adelaide CBD, North Adelaide, Norwood, Unley, Prospect, Thebarton, Mile End, Keswick, Richmond, Brooklyn Park, Marleston, Edwardstown, Marion, Tonsley, Port Adelaide, Gillman, Wingfield, Dry Creek, Gepps Cross, Pooraka, Regency Park, Salisbury, Salisbury South, Edinburgh, Edinburgh Parks, Mawson Lakes, Elizabeth, Smithfield, Munno Para, Gawler, Mount Barker, Murray Bridge, West Lakes, Glenelg, Semaphore.
Fee proposals for smaller projects are typically issued same-day or within 24 hours.
Independent acoustic consulting for residential, commercial, industrial and infrastructure projects across Australia.
