1
general::
Cause a disturbance or controversy, as in We've finally settled our differences, so please don't make waves. This expression alludes to causing turbulence in the water. [Slang; mid-1900s] Also see ROCK THE BOAT.
American Heritage Idioms
2
general::
Phrase(s): make waves
Sl. to cause difficulty. (Often in the negative.) • Just relax. Don’t make waves. • If you make waves too much around here, you won’t last long.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs