Exemption authorisation for loud devices and machines

Course description

In order to protect the population, the operation of loud devices and machines is regulated in Section 7 (1) of the Equipment and Machine Noise Protection Ordinance (32nd BImSchV).

The restrictions on operating times apply to the devices and machines listed in the annex to the ordinance if

• the devices or machines are operated outdoors,
• the devices or machines are operated in residential areas, small residential areas, special areas used for recreation, spa and clinic areas and areas for tourist accommodation or on the grounds of hospitals and nursing homes.

The following operating hours apply to loud devices and machines listed in the annex to the ordinance:

• weekdays from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., no operation on Sundays and public holidays
• Additional time restrictions apply to brush cutters, grass trimmers/grass edge trimmers, leaf blowers and leaf vacuum cleaners. They may only be operated on working days from 9 am to 1 pm and from 3 pm to 5 pm.

Federal trunk roads and railway lines of federal railways that run through the above-mentioned areas are exempt from the restrictions on operating hours.

If the devices or machines are used for private housework and gardening, the operating time restrictions of the municipal housework and music noise ordinance apply in the city of Munich.

Prerequisites

The Department for Climate and Environmental Protection of the City of Munich can authorise exceptions in individual cases if use outside of operating hours is absolutely necessary for important reasons. In particular, if it is in the public interest to work at night or on Sundays and public holidays.

The application must be submitted to the Department for Climate and Environmental Protection by post or e-mail one week before the start of the measure or, in the case of extensive measures, two weeks before the start.

Note: Anyone using noisy equipment and machinery to avert hazards during storms or snowfall or other dangers to people, the environment or property does not require an exemption licence.

Required documents

Completed and signed "Application form" form

Legal basis

§ Section 7 (2) of the 32nd BImSchV (Equipment and Machinery Noise Protection Ordinance)