Noise prevention: legal requirements

An important consideration in the development of power equipment for the garden is the need to minimise operating noise in order to protect the user, the neighbours and the environment in general. In May 2002 Germany implemented EU Directive 2000/14/EC whereby all new power equipment has to be put through a series of elaborate noise emission tests by the manufacturer. The peak noise level measured in dBA must be clearly marked on every machine sold.
Power equipment may not be used at all in residential areas and in health spa areas on Sundays and public holidays. In other cases they may only be used at certain times. There are further restrictions which apply to leaf blowers, leaf vacuums and brush cutters.

If you are in any doubt, please contact the authorities for commerce or public order in your municipality who will give you details of the times when it is permitted to run such equipment in your area.