The FIFA World Cup semi-final between England and Argentina kicks off at 8pm on Wednesday night, but fans watching from home could face fines of up to £1,000 if they make too much noise after 11pm. Under the Noise Act 1996, the hours between 11pm and 7am are designated as 'night hours', during which homeowners have a legal right to peace and quiet.
How the noise rule works
If a council officer measures noise from within a complainant's home during night hours and it exceeds the permitted threshold — typically 34 decibels, or 10 decibels above background noise — they will issue a warning notice. Ignoring that notice can result in an on-the-spot fine of £100. Refusal to pay, or if the council opts for direct prosecution, can lead to a Magistrates' Court hearing and a fine of up to £1,000, plus a criminal record.
The match, being played in Atlanta, Georgia, is the first meeting between England and Argentina since the 2002 World Cup in Japan. On that occasion, England won 1-0 thanks to a David Beckham penalty, securing group stage victory.
Historical context
BBC Sport's chief football reporter Phil McNulty recalled: "The futuristic Sapporo Dome was the scene of redemption for Beckham and England at the 2002 World Cup in Japan. Lingering tensions between the teams in the wake of Beckham's red card against Argentina in France four years earlier, along with a painful defeat on penalties in the last 16, made this a highly-charged occasion. And it was England — led by Sven-Goran Eriksson with Marcelo Bielsa his opposite number — who came out on top with a 1-0 win, fittingly scored from the spot by Beckham a minute before half-time, contentiously awarded after future Spurs manager Pochettino was adjudged to have fouled Owen."
Impact on fans
With the match starting at 8pm UK time, it is likely to extend past 11pm, putting fans at risk if they celebrate loudly. Local councils have the power to enforce the noise rules, and residents are advised to keep celebrations moderate to avoid complaints and potential fines.
