Da Nang steps up rapid response against noisy karaoke

Through a combination of public outreach, on-site noise measurements, and the confiscation of dozens of high-powered speakers, the city has helped restore order and bring greater peace to local communities.

Under Decree 282, authorities can penalize noise violations at any time of the day, removing earlier restrictions that focused mainly on late-night hours.

Since the decree came into force, wards across the city have intensified efforts to inform residents of the new regulations.

In Hoa Khanh Ward, local police officers have gone door to door, visiting households, boarding houses, and karaoke businesses to explain the rules and remind people to comply.

The efforts are aimed at curbing excessive noise from karaoke singing and high-volume music.

Hai Chau Ward vice-chairman Phan Huu Phung said the immediate priority remains communication and awareness-raising among residents and businesses.

Through various channels, most people have already become familiar with the provisions of Decree 282.

Phung said that before Decree 282 took effect, authorities responded to residents’ complaints about noisy karaoke by dispatching inspection teams to issue warnings.

When violations continued, noise levels were measured to provide a legal basis for sanctions.

Bars and pubs were handled by inter-agency task forces.

In Son Tra Ward, vice-chairman Nguyen Huy Binh said responsibility for implementing the decree has been assigned to the ward’s economic, infrastructure and urban division, working alongside local police.

“Noise pollution and loud karaoke seriously affect people’s lives, pose risks to public order, cause annoyance and can easily spark conflicts,” Binh said.

“Initially we will focus on education and reminders.

“A first violation receives a warning, but a second offense will be penalized, with equipment confiscated."

Da Nang’s firm stance predates the decree

Before the new decree came into force, rapid response teams were established to combat noisy karaoke, with the former Nai Hien Dong Ward pioneering the model.

The initiative later inspired other wards to follow suit, resulting in the seizure of numerous oversized speakers.

To ensure enforcement that was both fair and convincing, the ward coordinated with specialized agencies to deploy sound-measuring equipment, document violations, and establish a solid legal basis for penalties.

Local authorities also stepped up efforts to explain regulations under Decree 45, which stipulates administrative sanctions in environmental protection, while working with the metrology and quality center to inspect and handle violations.

Under Decree 45/2022, penalties can reach up to VND160 million (US$6,070) for noise levels exceeding the standard by 40 dBA or more, along with possible suspension of operations and mandatory payment of measurement costs.

Business penalized

Enforcement has not been limited to residential areas.

City authorities have also taken strong action against commercial establishments responsible for noise pollution.

In October, the Da Nang People’s Committee fined Safari International Co. Ltd., owner of Ocean Lounge Club near Phuoc My Beach, VND33 million ($1,250), of which VND25 million ($950) was for exceeding permitted noise levels.

The establishment had drawn complaints from residents and tourists, particularly at night.

In addition to the fine, the company was ordered to adopt noise-reduction measures to meet regulatory standards, and cover the cost of noise measurements and analysis.

Public calls for strict enforcement

In Ho Chi Minh City, police in several wards and communes have also rolled out extensive communication campaigns on Decree 282, using multiple channels and formats.

Officers in wards such as Tang Nhon Phu and Thu Duc have visited neighborhoods to brief residents and integrate the message into community meetings.

After being informed, Long, an 18-year-old college student renting a room in Tang Nhon Phu Ward, said he understood the new rules and pledged to comply.

On Monday, the official Facebook page of Tan Phuoc Ward Police also posted information about enforcing the decree against noisy karaoke gatherings, drawing widespread public support.

However, some readers of Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper noted that loud karaoke persists in certain areas.

Many have urged authorities to move beyond warnings, increase patrols, and respond swiftly to complaints, making firm examples of repeat offenders so that compliance truly becomes the norm.