The Resolution Path
1. Local Ordinance
2. Document Evidence
3. Resolve Dispute
The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3Charleston, SC
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"Charleston County prohibits plainly audible excessive noise above 70 dBA within 500 feet of residential property lines."
AI Executive Summary
Charleston, SC noise ordinances prohibit excessive, unnecessary, or unreasonable sounds plainly audible between 10 PM and 7 AM, and above 70 dBA within 500 feet of residential property. Specific rules govern amplified sound, vehicle noise, and animal disturbances. Construction is limited to 7 AM-7 PM weekdays and 9 AM-7 PM Saturdays, with no work on Sundays or holidays. Violations can result in fines.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
Noise-producing construction, repair, renovation, or demolition operations are prohibited outside of 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on weekdays and 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Saturdays. No construction is permitted on Sundays or City holidays.
Amplified Sound
Charleston County: Unlawful to play amplified sound plainly audible within any residential dwelling. Detection of rhythmic bass is sufficient. City of Charleston: Amplified musical instruments or devices operated in a privately owned or controlled courtyard or outdoor area are unlawful after 11:00 p.m. and before 7:00 a.m. if audible in any public street or right-of-way. Late Night Entertainment Establishments must close all doors and windows where music is played after 11:00 p.m.; noise audible within 50 feet is a nuisance.
Animals
Charleston County prohibits excessive, unnecessary, or unreasonable animal sound that endangers humans or animals, or annoys a reasonable person. City of Charleston prohibits keeping any animal that by reason of frequent or continual noise disturbs the peace, comfort, or health of neighbors. Nuisance dog barking is defined as more than 5 minutes in any 1-hour period.
Vehicles
Charleston County: Amplified sound from vehicles is unlawful if plainly audible at a distance of 50 feet or within a residential dwelling. City of Charleston: Unlawful to operate a motorized vehicle in a manner that emits loud and unnecessary noise or long-continued noise, including rapid throttle advancing (revving), which disturbs the peace.
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