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Writer's pictureLachlan Martin

What Time Am I Allowed To Mow My Lawn?

Updated: Sep 8



lawn mower on grass

Lawn Mowing Noise & Regulation Times To Cut Grass In Australia


There’s nothing worse than being jolted awake by a lawn mower on a day you’ve been eagerly anticipating for a relaxing sleep-in. To prevent disturbing your neighbours and avoid potential council fines, it's crucial to familiarize yourself with the lawn mowing regulations specific to your state or territory. This includes understanding the acceptable mowing hours for weekdays, weekends, Sundays, and public holidays. Check the guidelines below to ensure you’re mowing at the right times.


In Australia, noise rules are established by local councils and are designed to manage and control noise pollution to ensure a harmonious living environment. These rules vary by state and territory, but they generally include guidelines on acceptable noise levels and times. Here’s a detailed look at how noise regulations work in Australia:


The average sound level of a lawn mower is typically between 85 and 95 decibels (dB). The exact noise level can vary depending on the type of mower, its engine size, and its design. Here’s a breakdown based on the information provided in research and general industry standards Here is the article https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6707732/



Here is a list of what time can I mow my lawn


New South Wales (NSW)

  • Weekdays: Lawn mowing is generally allowed from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

  • Weekends and Public Holidays: Mowing is typically permitted from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

  • Local Regulations: Always check with your local council for specific regulations or restrictions. NSW Protection Authority



Victoria (VIC)

  • Weekdays: Mowing is acceptable from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

  • Weekends and Public Holidays: The recommended times are from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

  • Local Regulations: Victoria also has specific local council regulations, so it’s wise to verify with your local council. Victoria Protection Authority


Queensland (QLD)

  • Weekdays: Lawn mowing is generally allowed from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

  • Weekends and Public Holidays: Mowing is acceptable from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

  • Local Regulations: As with other states, local regulations should be checked for specific rules. Environmental Noise Regulation


South Australia (SA)

  • Weekdays: Mowing can be done from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

  • Weekends and Public Holidays: The permitted times are from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

  • Local Regulations: Ensure to check local council regulations for any additional restrictions.


Western Australia (WA)

  • Weekdays: Lawn mowing is acceptable from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

  • Weekends and Public Holidays: Mowing is allowed from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

  • Local Regulations: Local councils might have additional rules, so it’s good to verify.


Tasmania (TAS)

  • Weekdays: Mowing can typically be done from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

  • Weekends and Public Holidays: The recommended times are from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

  • Local Regulations: Always check with local authorities for any specific regulations.


Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

  • Weekdays: Mowing is generally allowed from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

  • Weekends and Public Holidays: Mowing is permitted from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

  • Local Regulations: Confirm with local council for any additional guidelines.


Northern Territory (NT)

  • Weekdays: Lawn mowing is acceptable from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

  • Weekends and Public Holidays: Mowing is generally allowed from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

  • Local Regulations: Check local council regulations for any specific rules.


How to Avoid Penalties:


  1. Check Local Regulations: Always verify the specific lawn mowing times and noise regulations with your local council.


  2. Respect Quiet Hours: Mow within the permitted hours and avoid early morning or late evening mowing.


  3. Be Considerate: If in doubt, consult with your neighbours about convenient mowing times to avoid disturbances.


By adhering to local regulations and being considerate of your neighbours, you can avoid potential penalties and maintain good community relations.


Penalties for not adhering to lawn mowing regulations in Australia can vary widely depending on the state or territory and the severity of the violation. Generally, penalties are imposed for violating local noise regulations or community rules. Here’s a general overview of potential penalties you might face if you don’t follow the appropriate mowing times:


Potential Penalties for Violating Lawn Mowing Regulations


1. Fines


  • Amount: Fines can range from $100 to $1,000 or more, depending on the local council’s regulations and the nature of the violation.

  • Issuance: Fines are typically issued by local councils or authorities if you are found mowing outside of permitted hours.


2. Warnings


  • Initial Offense: For a first-time offense, you may receive a formal warning from your local council or a noise abatement officer.

  • Follow-Up: Continued violations after a warning can result in fines or other enforcement actions.


3. Abatement Notices

  • Issuance: In some cases, you may receive a notice requiring you to cease the noisy activity immediately.

  • Compliance: Failure to comply with an abatement notice can lead to further legal



How to Avoid Lawn Mowing Penalties Outside Noise Times :


  1. Check Local Regulations: Always verify the specific lawn mowing times and noise regulations with your local council.

  2. Respect Quiet Hours: Mow within the permitted hours and avoid early morning or late evening mowing.

  3. Be Considerate: If in doubt, consult with your neighbors about convenient mowing times to avoid disturbances.


By adhering to local regulations and being considerate of your neighbours, you can avoid potential penalties and maintain good community relations.


When using a professional lawn mowing service or NDIS lawn mowing, we ensure compliance with the rules and regulations governing lawn mowing times in your local council area."

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