Over the last decades, cities have been developing noise policies. Comparing such efforts, however, is not straightforward. For this purpose, a previously proposed noise intervention classification scheme is used as a framework. This framework discriminates between source interventions, path interventions, closing/opening new infrastructure, other physical interventions (e.g. achieving a quiet side) and communication/education measures. Responsible officers dealing with noise at environmental departments of eight large European cities were interviewed. The invitations for an interview were sent out taking into account the geographical distribution of cities over Europe while a reasonably high position on a sustainable cities ranking was required. The interviews focused on the noise problem definition and what is in the noise management toolbox of the city. In addition, it is assessed how noise policies are evaluated, and to what extent public participation in the noise policy and planning process occurs. The interviews show highly contrasting opinions and practices among the interviewed cities at almost any aspect of the noise management process
