Bass Noise Assessment of Shophouse Pubs and Discos to Address Disturbance Reports by Surrounding Units

Ms Diana Pang Li Yen asked the Minister for Sustainability and the Environment (a) whether National Environment Agency (NEA) will adopt standards to measure low-frequency bass sounds such as from pubs and discos on the first floor of shophouses, which may not be captured by decibel meters, to address disturbance reports from residents on upper floors and nearby homes; and (b) whether NEA will coordinate with Urban Redevelopment Authority and Singapore Police Force to address this.

Nightlife establishments, such as pubs and discotheques, are required to comply with noise control requirements as stipulated in the licensing conditions in their Public Entertainment licence issued by the Singapore Police Force (SPF). Where necessary, these establishments may also be required to implement additional noise mitigation measures.

The National Environment Agency (NEA) does not regulate nightlife establishments. Upon feedback from residents, NEA will work with SPF and other agencies to engage these nightlife establishments to take further mitigation measures as far as practicable.