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Can you mow your lawn on a bank holiday in France?
Restrictions are always in place for ‘noisy’ activities but are stricter on holidays
Many people in France will spend today’s (May 8) bank holiday relaxing and not doing much.
Some though may also see the day as an opportunity to catch up on gardening or a good time to advance on a DIY project.
Green-fingered readers, however, should be aware that there are rules for when you can mow your lawn and you can face a fine if you fail to respect the regulations.
The restrictions apply to using equipment that will make excessive noise, such as a lawnmower, drill, mechanical saw, etc.
If you are simply watering your garden (drought conditions permitting), hosting a BBQ, or painting your shutters, these restrictions do not apply as long as you are not making excess noise whilst doing so.
Read also: Why the French government wants you to clear up your garden
What are the restrictions?
The restrictions for making noise in a residential area are split into three levels depending on whether it is a normal weekday (less restrictive), a Saturday (more restrictive) or a Sunday / public holiday (the most restrictive).
They apply to both private individuals and those hired to work in a private property such as gardeners or handymen.
The full times for when you are allowed to use noisy equipment are:
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Weekdays from 8:00 to 12.30 and from 14.30 to 19.30
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Saturdays from 9:00 to 12:00 and from 15:00 to 19:00
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Sundays and public holidays from 10:00 to 12:00
Restrictions are therefore stringent on public holidays, with most of the day dedicated to peace and quiet.
It should be noted, though, that these rules can be changed by local mairies, both by increasing restrictions or by removing them.
You can check directly with your mairie if restrictions are different, especially for weekends.
Those who fail to respect the regulations could be subject to a €68 fine for noise disturbance if somebody lodges a complaint against them.
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