Evangelical Church of Santiago Ordered to Comply with Noise Limits to Avoid Environmental Pollution Violations (Santiago, Chile)

The Evangelical Church of Santiago, specifically the Ministry of the Evangelical Crusader Power, has been ordered by the Fourth Chamber of the Court of Appeal of Santiago to limit the volume of its noise emissions. This decision, issued on 12 February in Case No. 20.407-2024, follows an application for protection filed by neighbors affected by the church’s activities. The court ruled that the church must comply with maximum noise levels permitted for its area to avoid infringing on constitutional rights.

Neighbors have reported that the church’s noise levels, particularly during evening and weekend services, have significantly impacted their quality of life. The complaints, which date back nearly three years, highlight disturbances caused by amplified music, chants, and other sounds, especially during vigils held on Fridays and Saturdays. These events often extend into the night, creating a persistent disruption for nearby residents.

The Municipality of Santiago had previously issued a notice in January 2024 regarding the noise complaints, but the situation has not improved. Residents claim that despite repeated requests for intervention, the municipality has failed to take effective action. Inspections have reportedly been insufficient, with the church allegedly reducing its noise levels only during these checks.

The court acknowledged the numerous complaints and noted that municipal inspections have only occasionally resulted in a reduction of noise levels. On 7 January 2024, a temporary decrease in sound pressure levels to 63 decibels was recorded, which still exceeds the maximum allowed in the area—60 decibels. This finding underscores the ongoing issue of noise pollution and its impact on the community.

The ruling reflects a growing concern over the balance between religious expression and the rights of residents to a peaceful environment. The court’s decision emphasizes the need for compliance with environmental and constitutional standards, ensuring that public spaces remain free from excessive noise that disrupts daily life. This case highlights the challenges faced by religious institutions in maintaining their activities while respecting the rights of the surrounding community.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Spanish)