In Kazakhstan, noise regulation standards have been tightened, both at night and during the day. For exceeding the permissible sound level — 55 dB during the day and 45 dB at night — fines can be imposed not only on violators, but also on those who mistakenly call the police without evidence.
According to the portal Tengri Life and lawyers' explanations, the noise must be recorded in advance, otherwise the caller may face greater liability.
The legislation clearly defines what can be considered noise that disturbs rest:
- renovation work,
- dogs barking,
- loud music,
- shouting,
- noisy parties and gatherings,
- any other sounds that disturb the peace.
The time frames for the 'quiet hours' are established by law:
- on weekdays: from 22:00 to 9:00,
- on weekends and public holidays: from 23:00 to 10:00.
However, even during the day, sanitary standards apply. The permissible noise level during daylight hours is no more than 55 dB (roughly the volume of a normal conversation). If exceeded, this fact can be considered an administrative offence, and the case is referred to the Sanitary and Epidemiological Service (SES), which has the right to draw up a report and impose a fine.
The amount of the penalty depends on the category of the violator:
- individuals — up to 20 MCI (up to 78,640 tenge),
- officials, small businesses and non-profit organisations (NPOs) — up to 160 MCI (up to 629,120 tenge),
- medium-sized businesses — 210 MCI (825,720 tenge),
- large businesses — up to 1600 MCI (6,291,200 tenge).
For a repeated violation within a year:
- individual — 10 MCI (39,320 tenge),
- small business and NPO — 40 MCI (157,280 tenge),
- medium-sized business — 60 MCI (235,920 tenge),
- large business — 150 MCI (589,800 tenge).
If a person calls the police but cannot provide evidence (video, audio or neighbours' testimony), and the noise is not confirmed by measurements, they themselves may be held liable for making a false report. The fine for this is 30 MCI (117,960 tenge).
Lawyers advise using special sound level meters or smartphones with sound recording capability to record noise level exceedances.
If a problem with neighbours arises for the first time, experts recommend starting with a verbal warning. Sometimes a polite request — for example, to reschedule renovation work — proves quite effective and can avoid further conflict.
If the noise continues, a call to 102 must be accompanied by specific information: who is disturbing the peace, in what way, at what time, and how it is affecting your wellbeing. According to lawyer Nurlan Zhanabayev, such complaints help the police properly record the violation and process the case in the prescribed manner.
Thus, observing quiet hours is not only a legal obligation, but also a sign of respect for others. Residents of apartment buildings are advised to be more considerate of each other to avoid unnecessary fines and legal proceedings.