Restaurant Owners' Plea to Neighbors: 'We're Doing Everything We Can'

Conflicts between neighbors and restaurants are a nationwide issue. These disputes are often prolonged, costly, and pose a threat to urban nightlife.

It's not just the nightclub Trädgården in Stockholm facing complaints from neighbors. Restaurants, bars, and clubs across the country report similar issues.

"It's a few who complain, but thousands who enjoy," says Robin Jansson, who runs Brasseriet in Borgholm.

He has spent over 200,000 kronor on decibel meters to monitor noise levels, yet still faces frequent complaints.

"We're doing everything we can. We move speakers, lower bass levels. But then you see everyone on the dance floor stop dancing and ask, 'What's happening, are you closing?'"

Calls for New Legislation

For the past four years, Telegrafen in Helsingborg has been embroiled in a heated conflict with a neighbor, forcing them to stop live music, a key part of their brand.

"He continued to complain about regular music. Recently, he even complained about people moving their chairs," says owner Sara Johansson.

The dispute has become a long and costly process, involving the environmental department, county administrative board, and environmental court.

"I think we're seeing a sad trend across Sweden where a city's nightlife is limited due to neighbors' complaints," says Amir Jawad (L), chairman of the environmental committee in Helsingborg.

"Of course, people have the right to voice concerns. But if you choose to live in the most central part of a city, whether it's Stockholm or Helsingborg, you should expect it to be a bit noisier."

Amir Jawad advocates for new legislation with differentiated noise levels, meaning those living centrally should accept higher noise levels than those on the outskirts.

"I want to bring this issue to the national stage," he says.

'Spent at Least 100,000 Kronor'

In neither Borgholm nor Helsingborg have neighbors been willing to cooperate. Robin Jansson believes the issue could be resolved if he had the chance to dialogue with them.

"We could redirect speakers, buy an AC so they don't have to open windows, offer queue priority or discounts on food and drinks."

According to Sara Johansson, the prolonged conflict with the neighbor has cost her—and taxpayers—enormous sums.

"I have to pay every time he reports me. I've probably spent at least 100,000 kronor on this. And for taxpayers, it's likely a million," she says.

Amir Jawad suggests introducing a participation obligation.

"Those who report a business for noise or similar issues should also be required to fully cooperate," he says.

If the conflict between Brasseriet and the neighbors isn't resolved, Robin Jansson sees a risk of the restaurant closing.

"We're losing a lot financially and can't run a business. We can't have an entertainment venue that closes at midnight. It's not profitable."