Football fans in the UK could face fines or even have their televisions confiscated if they break noise regulations during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The law protects residents' right to peace and quiet between 11pm and 7am, known as 'night hours'. With matches hosted in North America, many kick-offs fall after 9pm UK time, pushing second halves past the 11pm threshold.
England Match Schedule
England's group stage matches all start before 11pm but extend into night hours:
- England vs Croatia: Sunday, June 17 – kick off at 9pm (UK time)
- England vs Ghana: Friday, June 23 – kick off at 9pm (UK time)
- England vs Panama: Wednesday, June 27 – kick off at 10pm (UK time)
While the government has eased licensing laws for pubs, residential noise restrictions remain unchanged. Shouting at the TV or playing commentary loudly through sound systems can be deemed antisocial behaviour.
Penalties for Noise Breaches
Under the Noise Act 1996, council officers can measure noise from a complainant's home. If it exceeds 34 decibels or 10 decibels above background noise, a warning notice is issued. Ignoring it leads to an on-the-spot £100 fine. Continued non-compliance allows officers to seize equipment, including TVs and sound systems, which are stored for 28 days. Owners must pay all council expenses—officer time, vehicle hire, storage, and locksmith fees—often totalling hundreds of pounds.
Refusing to pay the fine or direct prosecution can result in a criminal record and a fine of up to £1,000 in Magistrates' Court. Breaching a Section 80 Abatement Notice also triggers mandatory breach of standard tenancy agreements, with councils sharing data with landlords, potentially leading to eviction.
