Sri Lanka Police have reiterated rules governing the use of loudspeakers, amplifiers and other sound equipment, warning that excessive noise causing a public nuisance can result in legal action.
Police said loudspeakers are generally not permitted between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., although permission may be granted in accordance with the law for religious functions and other special events.
Police also warned that sound equipment could be seized if excessive noise continues after officers order those responsible to stop.
Police cite public-nuisance law
Police referred to Section 261 of the Penal Code and directions arising from Supreme Court Case No. 38/2005.
According to Police, amplified sound that causes inconvenience or disturbance to neighbouring residents or the public may constitute a public nuisance.
Police also highlighted possible health and psychological effects of excessive noise, particularly on infants, schoolchildren, older people and patients.
General 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. restriction
Police said loudspeaker use is generally prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
Exceptions may be considered for religious functions and other special events where the required permission has been obtained.
According to the Police guidance, where specific permission has been granted, loudspeakers may generally be used:
- until 10:00 p.m. Monday to Thursday;
- until 1:00 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays; and
- until 12:30 a.m. on Sundays.
However, Police stressed that these times do not create an automatic right to make excessive noise.
Permit does not allow public nuisance
Even where permission has been granted, sound should be controlled so that it does not cause a nuisance to surrounding residents.
Police officers may monitor compliance with conditions attached to permits.
If a complaint is received and officers determine that the noise constitutes a nuisance, those responsible may be instructed to stop immediately.
Police warned that continued excessive noise despite such instructions could lead to further legal action, including seizure of the relevant sound equipment.
How the public can report excessive noise
Members of the public can report illegal or excessive noise to the nearest police station.
Police have also identified the emergency numbers 118 and 119 for reporting such incidents.
This is enforcement guidance, not a new noise law
The latest Police statement principally reiterates existing legal restrictions and enforcement arrangements.
It should therefore not be interpreted as the enactment of a new nationwide noise law on 30 August.
The guidance should not be described as an absolute ban on every loudspeaker after 10 p.m., or as permission to create unlimited noise before the stated cutoff times.
The distinction remains between the general restriction, legally permitted exceptions, permit conditions and the continuing prohibition against causing a public nuisance.