Columbia, SC Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Columbia, SC?
| Regulation | Details for Columbia, SC |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 803-252-2911 |
Generally 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM, specifically for radios, phonographs, and musical instruments disturbing residents. For building operations in residential areas, it's 11:00 PM to 6:00 AM. Commercial loading/unloading in residential areas is restricted between 11:00 PM and 6:00 AM.
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Columbia, SC Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Columbia, SC?
Columbia, SC noise ordinances, found in Chapter 8, Article III of the City's Code of Ordinances, prohibit unreasonably loud, disturbing, or unnecessary noise. Quiet hours are generally from 10 PM to 7 AM, with residential decibel limits of 50 dB overnight and 55 dB during the day. Specific restrictions apply to construction, amplified sound, and vehicle operations.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 55 dB (6:00 AM - 11:00 PM) | 50 dB (11:00 PM - 6:00 AM) |
| Commercial | Not specified for general commercial noise | 70 dB(A) for commercial loading/unloading (11:00 PM - 6:00 AM) |
Note: Construction noise has specific limits: 80 dB(A) from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM and 75 dB(A) from 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM. Commercial loading/unloading in residential areas must be below 50 dB(A) between 11:00 PM and 6:00 AM.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Unlawful to operate loud machinery between 11:00 PM and 6:00 AM in residential blocks where more than half the buildings are residential. Decibel limits are 80 dB(A) from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM and 75 dB(A) from 7:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
- Amplified Sound:
Unlawful to play radios, phonographs, or musical instruments between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM to annoy or disturb residents in dwellings or hotels. Unlawful to operate sound-amplifying devices so loudly as to unreasonably disturb persons or create a public nuisance. Permits may be granted for special occasions.
- Animals:
Excessive dog barking (including whining and howling) is considered a nuisance. Animal control can impound such dogs, and owners may face warnings or fines.
- Vehicles:
Unlawful to create loud or excessive noise from vehicles that are out of repair or improperly loaded, particularly during loading or unloading. Commercial loading/unloading between 11:00 PM and 6:00 AM must be below 50 dB(A) in residential areas and 70 dB(A) in commercial areas. Unnecessary sounding of horns or racing of vehicle engines not in motion (except for repair/testing) is prohibited.
Frequently Asked Questions about Columbia, SC Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Columbia, SC?
Generally 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM, specifically for radios, phonographs, and musical instruments disturbing residents. For building operations in residential areas, it's 11:00 PM to 6:00 AM. Commercial loading/unloading in residential areas is restricted between 11:00 PM and 6:00 AM.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Columbia, SC?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 55 dB (6:00 AM - 11:00 PM) during the day and 50 dB (11:00 PM - 6:00 AM) 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 Columbia, SC?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Columbia, SC police non-emergency line at 803-252-2911. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 803-545-3430.