As Britain’s weather warms up over the bank holiday weekend, an expert has warned that a common activity could lead to a fine of thousands.

Many Brits will be keen to invite neighbours, friends and family for a back garden barbecue this weekend, but these parties can lead to noise complaints and penalties.

Daniel McAfee, head of legal operations at Lawhive, has warned Brits of the legal dangers of loud springtime activities. Parties and social gatherings can quickly turn from neighbourhood cheer to legal complaints if the volume goes too loud or runs too late into the evening.

McAfee said: “The Environmental Protection Act 1990 provides local authorities with broad powers to address noise that constitutes a statutory nuisance. Where excessive noise is determined to substantially interfere with the use and enjoyment of another person's home, local councils are legally obliged to investigate such complaints."

"If a statutory nuisance is established, the council will issue an abatement notice requiring the noise to cease or be restricted. Non-compliance with an abatement notice can lead to prosecution and a fine of up to £5,000 for domestic premises. This is not an empty threat — these fines are real, and local authorities do enforce them."

His advice is to inform neighbours in advance of any noisy events, keep music and loud voices within reasonable limits, particularly after 9pm and close doors and windows to contain sound.

It is also a good idea to let guests know to be mindful when arriving or leaving, as well as during events themselves.

If neighbours do raise concerns, McAfee advises people to engage constructively and look for solutions.

He added: “A common misconception is that one is entitled to make as much noise as they wish on their own property, particularly during the day. That is not, in my assessment, accurate. What matters is whether the noise amounts to a nuisance in legal terms—location, timing, frequency, and effect on neighbours are all relevant considerations.”

Even cutting the grass can result in complaints, as McAfee explained.

He said: “There is no nationwide restriction on when individuals may cut their grass; however, the Environmental Protection Act 1990 provides local authorities with powers to address noise that constitutes a statutory nuisance.”

“To be more precise, noise that is excessive, unreasonable, and persistent, particularly during unsociable hours, can result in abatement notices, fines up to £5,000, and in some cases, even prosecution.”

He recommended avoiding very early or very late hours, notify neighbours in advance if using machinery such as pressure washers, limit the duration of loud noises and consider neighbours’ specific circumstances, such as their shift patterns or young children.

If you are affected by neighbour noise, McAfee advises starting with an informal conversation, as many are unaware their behaviour is causing distress.

Should it be necessary, follow up in writing, and as a last resort residents can report matter to their local authority’s environmental health team, keeping records of dates, times, and the impact of the noise.