What are the quiet hours in Greenville, SC?

In Greenville, SC, designated quiet hours are typically 11PM-7AM. During these times, noise must be kept to a minimum.

Who do I call for a noise complaint in Greenville, SC?

For non-emergencies in Greenville, SC, contact the police at 864-271-5333. For code violations, contact Code Enforcement at 864-467-7090.

Greenville, SC Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]

When are quiet hours in Greenville, SC?

Regulation	Details for Greenville, SC
Quiet Hours	11PM-7AM
Weekends	Typically same as weekdays
Enforcement	Police Non-Emergency: 864-271-5333

Generally 11 PM to 7 AM, with specific exceptions for activities like construction and permitted amplified sound events.

Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.

Who To Call (Non-Emergency)

864-271-5333 How to file a complaint →

Greenville, SC Noise Rules

Verified 2026

What is the noise ordinance in Greenville, SC?

Greenville, SC's noise ordinance (Chapter 16, Article II, Division 3) prohibits noise that significantly disturbs residents' comfortable enjoyment of public or private property. Recent amendments refined measurement distances and police enforcement discretion. While city-specific decibel limits for zones are not readily published, the ordinance aims to reduce excessive and unnecessary noise, ensuring a peaceful urban environment.

Decibel Limit Comparison

Decibel limits for residential and commercial zones in Greenville, SC
Zone Type	Day	Night
Residential	Not specified	Not specified
Commercial	Not specified	Not specified

Note: The City of Greenville's ordinance primarily prohibits noise that 'substantially interferes with the comfortable enjoyment of persons of ordinary sensibilities'. Recent amendments specify decibel measurement distances: 3 feet from the source in the central business district and 10 feet outside the central business district. For Greenville County (outside city limits), the general limit is 70 dB(A) from 7 AM to 10 PM and 60 dB(A) from 10 PM to 7 AM.

Specific Restrictions

Construction:
Construction and related activities are exempt from noise prohibitions between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. on Saturdays, and 9:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. on Sundays.
Amplified Sound:
Outdoor amplified sound requires a permit. Permitted events cannot last more than four hours or extend beyond 11:00 p.m..
Animals:
Nuisance barking, defined as persistent, excessive, and without clear external provocation, is prohibited. A summons may be issued after a third verified complaint.
Vehicles:
Intentional revving of engines, blaring music, and amplified yelling/screaming are grounds for citation. In Greenville County, it is unlawful for sound-producing devices in motor vehicles to be audible at a distance of 50 feet. Off-road vehicle use is prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. off-road, except for emergency purposes or to access public rights-of-way.

Frequently Asked Questions about Greenville, SC Noise Rules

What are the designated quiet hours in Greenville, SC?

Generally 11 PM to 7 AM, with specific exceptions for activities like construction and permitted amplified sound events.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.

How loud can I play music in Greenville, SC?

Residential areas typically have a limit of Not specified during the day and Not specified 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 Greenville, SC?

For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Greenville, SC police non-emergency line at 864-271-5333. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 864-467-7090.

Call Police