The Laws on Noise Control - Current Situation and Some Recommendations for Improvement

The Laws on Noise Control - Current Situation and Some Recommendations for Improvement

Trần Linh Huân tlhuan@hcmulaw.edu.vn Ho Chi Minh City University of Law
Abstract: 

Noise is becoming an increasingly concerning environmental problem, adversely affecting the physical and mental well-being and quality of life of people, as well as the natural environment and sustainable development. The research findings indicate that Vietnamese law has begun to establish a legal basis for noise control through technical provisions, sanctions for violations and mechanisms for protecting citizens’ rights. However, the current provisions remain fragmented and lack a direct and comprehensive legal framework; noise-control zones have not been designated in accordance with the specific characteristics of different areas; measurement mechanisms are not yet standardised; procedures for handling violations remain unclear, while sanctions do not ensure sufficient deterrence; and mandatory public communication programmes and effective mechanisms for community monitoring and feedback are still lacking. To address the existing limitations and shortcomings, the article proposes establishing a specialised legal framework for noise control; improving provisions on noise-control zoning, permissible noise limits and noise measurement; clearly defining procedures, responsibilities and sanctions for violations; and establishing mechanisms for public communication, monitoring and receiving citizens’ reports.

Keywords: 
Noise; noise pollution; noise control; laws on noise control
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