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Tengrinews.kz – Being loud in Kazakhstan can cost you, even during the day. According to lawyer Nurlan Zhanabayev, violations of the country’s noise regulations are punishable by fines, and in some cases, may even lead to legal action.
Zhanabayev explained that many people believe noise is only punishable at night, but that’s a common misconception. Daytime disturbances - such as loud music, renovations, barking dogs, shouting, or noisy gatherings - may also be subject to penalties if they exceed established decibel limits.
What counts as noise and what the law says
Kazakhstan’s "quiet hours" are legally defined as:
- Weekdays: from 10:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m.
- Weekends and holidays: from 11:00 p.m. to 10:00 a.m.
Violating these rules can lead to fines under Article 437 of the Code of Administrative
Offenses:
- Individuals: 5 MCI (19,660 tenge)
- Small businesses/NGOs: 20 MCI (78,640 tenge)
- Medium businesses: 30 MCI (117,960 tenge)
- Large businesses: 100 MCI (393,200 tenge)
- Repeat offenses within a year double the fines for individuals to 10 MCI (39,320 tenge), and up to 150 MCI (589,800 tenge) for large businesses.
Daytime noise is also regulated
While nighttime noise limits are capped at 45 dB, daytime limits are only slightly higher - 55 dB. For context, normal conversation typically ranges from 45 to 60 dB.
If someone complains about daytime noise and it’s found to exceed the limit, the police are required to document the incident and forward the case to the Sanitary and Epidemiological Service. From there, SES officials can issue fines:
- Individuals: 20 MCI (78,640 tenge)
- Officials/small businesses/NGOs: 160 MCI
- Medium businesses: 210 MCI
- Large businesses: 1,600 MCI (6,291,200 tenge)
Zhanabayev stressed the importance of evidence. If neighbors continue to be noisy despite warnings, residents should call the police hotline (102). However, it’s also necessary to record audio or video of the noise - without proof, the complainant might face a penalty themselves.
"A person who files a false or unsubstantiated complaint may be fined 30 MCI (117,960 tenge)," he warned.
Maintaining peace and quiet isn’t just a legal obligation - it’s a basic sign of respect. If your neighbors cross the line, experts advise speaking to them first. If that doesn’t help, document the disturbance and follow the proper legal channels.
