Noise from Cafes and Restaurants: How to Protect Your Peace?

Is the local bar too loud? Living in city centers across Serbia brings us closer to entertainment but also to the problem of excessive noise from cafes and restaurants. Understanding decibel limits and the legal complaint procedure is the first step toward reclaiming your peace.

Noise Limits and Regulations

In residential areas, night-time noise inside an apartment should not exceed 30-35 dB. Establishments are required to install sound limiters. If the music from below is making your floor vibrate, it's a clear violation of municipal rules.

Step-by-step complaint template

Log date/time, noise type and duration.

Call Municipal Police for immediate action; for chronic cases file a written report to the Inspectorate with neighbor statements.

Attach recordings as illustration (official measurements are done by accredited labs).

At-home mitigation tips

Seal windows, use heavy curtains, move the bedroom away from the facade if possible.

Anti‑vibration pads under furniture; white noise for temporary relief.