New law imposing noise restrictions comes into force in Georgia

Making excessive noise during the day or in the evenings has become a punishable act in Georgia.

A bill regulating noise control countrywide has come into force starting today, August 15.

According to the new law, police purchased devices to measure levels of noises. Those responsible for noises that exceed certain levels will be punished.

The new law does not define what levels of noise can be considered a violation. Under the bill, the government adopted a document specifying what levels can be allowed and what can be considered as a subject to be fined for.

Offenders will only be warned, not fined, when they violate the new law for the first time, but they will face fines if they do it again.

If noise levels exceed the acceptable level, an individual can be fined 150 GEL and a business can be fined 500 GEL. The penalties will be doubled if parties – either individual or businesses – repeatedly flout the law.

Entertaining, sporting and cultural events that are agreed with local governments as well as construction and renovation noises during day hours (from 8am to 11pm) will be exempt from the new regulations.

The new law regulates the use of fireworks too. If an individual makes fireworks anytime from 11pm to 8am, they will have to pay 150 GEL as a fine. The same act done by a business will mean the offender will have to pay 500 GEL.