The Resolution Path
1. Local Ordinance
2. Document Evidence
3. Resolve Dispute
The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3High Point, NC
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"The ordinances refer to 'Table 1 of section 17-10' and 'Table 2' for maximum permissible sound levels by use occupancy, but these tables are not provided in the search results. Exceeding these levels by more than 15 dB(A) or dB in octave band measurement is prohibited. Motor vehicles have limits of 76-80 dB(A) for vehicles under 10,000 lbs and 91-95 dB(A) for those 10,000 lbs or more, measured at 25 feet, depending on speed limit. Motor boats are restricted from exceeding 86 dB(A) when measured at least 50 feet from the craft in residential or noise sensitive zones."
AI Executive Summary
High Point, NC noise ordinances, outlined primarily in Chapter 12, Article I, Section 12-1-10 "Offenses against public peace and order" and Chapter 17, Article II "Noise Control," prohibit unreasonably loud, disturbing, and unnecessary noises. These include excessive sound from radios and amplified devices, frequent animal noise, loud vehicle operation, and construction outside permitted hours.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
Operating tools for construction, drilling, repair, alteration, or demolition work is prohibited between 9:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. on weekdays, and between 9:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. on weekends or holidays, in or within 50 yards of any residential area or noise sensitive zone, unless by special permit or for emergency work.
Amplified Sound
Playing radios, televisions, stereos, musical instruments, or other sound-producing/amplifying devices is prohibited between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. if the sound is audible at 30 feet or more from a dwelling's property line. Loudspeakers or amplifier systems are generally prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. on weekdays and 10:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. on weekends and holidays in residential, commercial, or noise sensitive areas, unless by special permit for noncommercial public speaking or assembly. Loudspeakers for commercial purposes are generally prohibited if they annoy or disturb. Amplified sound audible in excess of 150 feet is restricted.
Animals
Keeping any animal or bird that, by causing frequent or long-continued noise, disturbs the comfort and repose of any person in the vicinity, is prohibited. Excessive barking dogs are considered a violation of the noise ordinance, and animal control officers work with dog owners to address these issues.
Vehicles
Creating unreasonably loud or unnecessary grating, grinding, rattling, or other noise from motor vehicles, or sounding horns unnecessarily, is prohibited. Sound-producing equipment in vehicles is prohibited if the sound or vibration is audible or felt at 30 feet or more. Loading and unloading vehicles is restricted between 7:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. on weekdays and 7:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m. on weekends or holidays in or within 50 yards of a residential area or noise sensitive zone. Motor boats exceeding 86 dB(A) when measured at 50 feet in residential or noise sensitive zones are also prohibited.
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