The Department of Planning and Environment issued one penalty notice, and three official cautions.

In August, Thomas Foods copped a $15,000 fine for exceeding its production limits.

Three official cautions were given to Whitehaven Coal mines, including Maules Creek for exceeding equipment sound power levels, and Tarrawonga Coal and Rocglen Mine for failing to undertake road noise monitoring in 2017.

The department compliance director Ben Harrison said spot checks were conducted without warning.

The compliance team also regularly conducts inspections and audits, while working with companies to ensure they are sticking to the rules.

“We are here to investigate complaints from the public, local councils and other state government agencies but also build effective partnerships with industry.,” Mr Harrison said.

“Our compliance team has expanded from seven to 30-plus over the past four years to cater for the rapid growth in development across the state and to ensure existing operations were adequately monitored.

“We’ve boosted our investment and put more boots on the ground in managing compliance and delivering education to assist industry to ensure they are doing the right thing.

“Thanks to our larger team we are now able to better service NSW, including the New England region in a strong and proactive way.”