Charleston, SC Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Charleston, SC?
| Regulation | Details for Charleston, SC |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 843-743-7200 |
10 PM - 7 AM (general for excessive noise, Charleston County); 11 PM - 7 AM (amplified sound in outdoor areas, City of Charleston)
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Charleston, SC Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Charleston, SC?
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.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 70 dBA | 70 dBA (plainly audible within 500 feet of residential property) |
| Commercial | Not specified | Not specified |
Note: Charleston County prohibits plainly audible excessive noise above 70 dBA within 500 feet of residential property lines.
Specific 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.
Frequently Asked Questions about Charleston, SC Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Charleston, SC?
10 PM - 7 AM (general for excessive noise, Charleston County); 11 PM - 7 AM (amplified sound in outdoor areas, City of Charleston). Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Charleston, SC?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 70 dBA during the day and 70 dBA (plainly audible within 500 feet of residential property) at night. Excessive vibration or bass that is plainly audible at the property line may also be a violation.
Who do I contact to report a noise violation in Charleston, SC?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Charleston, SC police non-emergency line at 843-743-7200. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at City of Charleston Zoning Administrators: 304-348-8105 x362 (Zone A), 304-348-8105 x367 (Zone B).