Noise and dust from grain dryers

Grain drying and conditioning can create a significant amount of noise and dust. It could cause a nuisance for your neighbours.

    What you must do

    If noise from your work is found to be causing a nuisance to the surrounding community, your local council can limit or even stop you from working. They can restrict:

    • the type of machinery you use 
    • your working hours 
    • noise levels emitted from your premises.

    Failure to address a noise problem could result in legal action and a fine.

    Good practice

    To avoid causing a nuisance to your neighbours:

    • block dust and noise from grain dryers with buildings, trees or hedges 
    • do not carry out noisy operations at night time 
    • regularly maintain equipment such as fans and motors in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions; this will help prevent them becoming excessively noisy 
    • if possible, keep doors and windows closed in buildings where noisy machinery operates 
    • quickly repair any holes in walls of buildings that contain noisy machinery
    • consider the use of sound proofing insulation materials in building construction.