The City of Cape Town’s Health Department has received nearly 200 generator noise complaints over the past 12-month period. This is almost triple the previous year’s 60 complaints.
According to the City, the big rise in complaints goes hand-in-hand with the sustained load-shedding, which resulted in more residents and businesses turning to alternatives to mitigate the impact of power cuts.
“Generators make life easier, but it does necessitate a mutual understanding and consideration when it comes to the use of these machines in or near residential areas. Apart from ensuring that they are installed and operating correctly, generators can be quite loud when in operation, and also be the source of emissions or odors. These are all things that need to be carefully considered and managed.”
Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, Councillor Patricia van der Ross said the Noise Control staff are mandated to investigate complaints and implement the necessary corrective measures.
“We also want to increase awareness and education among the general public, and help develop an environment that takes cognizance of everyone’s rights."
The Department of Energy regulates the process of embedded low voltage generator installations in the city.
There are numerous other regulations that could be applied, including the City’s Air Quality Management By-law, the Community Fire Safety By-law as relates to fuel storage requirements, and the Western Cape Noise Control Regulations.
Noise complaints can be logged with
the Noise Unit via e-mail at Noise@capetown.gov.za or telephonically to the
City’s Corporate Call Centre on 0860 103 089 or via the City’s e-services
portal https://eservices1.capetown.gov.za/coct/wapl/zsreq_app/index.html
Done By: Esona Mfazwe
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