Light and smell nuisance

Statutory nuisance

Check Gov.uk’s information on statutory nuisance. If you feel you have a case, you should fill out a diary sheet describing how the problem affects you.

Artificial light

You should check the Gov.uk website. If your complaint fits their criteria, you can report it to us and we will investigate.

Ways to avoid causing a light nuisance:

• angle your light downwards and ensure it shines only within your premises
• use a motion sensor or timer set for the shortest time necessary
• choose a suitable bulb – 150w is usually more than sufficient
• if you need to light a large area, use multiple lower power units rather than a single powerful floodlight

Nuisance smells

See the Gov.uk website. Fill out a diary sheet if your problem meets these criteria.

We cannot investigate smells that arise from residential properties. This includes:

• cooking smells – including barbecues
• smelly bins
• smells that arise from DIY activities like fence painting or bitumen flat roof repairs
• smoking or vaping smells from residents in their own homes

We cannot investigate anonymous complaints or complaints made on behalf of other residents in a road. We will be unable to process your complaint if you have accurately identified the source of the smell or you have not provided your home address and contact phone number. This is because we need evidence from those that are affected. Witnesses should only report what they know is fact and to be true. Evidence must not be influenced by other people’s opinions or read on social media.

Commercial or trade smells reported in an area can be very difficult to locate, especially if they occur out of hours. We ask that you take some time to help our investigative team by walking around the area to see where the smell can be pin pointed to. Note the date, time and wind direction when you experience the smell. The University of Reading weather station which posts daily weather reports.

If unmanaged commercial waste from shops is creating a smell, please contact StreetScene@reading.gov.uk  Please provide date stamped photos over time to prove the waste is not being managed.