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The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3Greenville, SC
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"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."
AI Executive Summary
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.
Specific Noise 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.
Noise Protection Score
How well does Greenville protect residents from noise?
Qualitative standard
Standard coverage
Standard fines
4 noise categories regulated
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the quiet hours in Greenville, SC?
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Greenville's quiet hours: Generally 11 PM to 7 AM, with specific exceptions for activities like construction and permitted amplified sound events.. During these hours, noise must stay below residential nighttime decibel limits at the property line. Violations can result in fines on the first offense.
What are the noise decibel limits in Greenville?
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Greenville's residential noise limits: Not specified dB(A) during the day and Not specified dB(A) at night. Commercial zones allow Not specified. Limits are measured at the receiving property line.
How do I file a noise complaint in Greenville?
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Call the Greenville police non-emergency line at 864-271-5333. For ongoing violations, contact code enforcement at 864-467-7090. Have the address, noise type, and duration ready. You can request to remain anonymous.
What is the fine for a noise violation in Greenville?
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Greenville's noise violation penalties: Violations are subject to a fine of not less than $100 and potentially up to $500, or imprisonment for not more than 30 days. Court costs and fees can significantly increase the total payment. For noise from sound amplifying devices in motor vehicles, repeat convictions may lead to the forfeiture of the sound-producing device.. Fines typically escalate with repeat offenses and may result in misdemeanor charges for chronic violations.
What are the dog barking rules in Greenville?
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Greenville's rules: Nuisance barking, defined as persistent, excessive, and without clear external provocation, is prohibited. A summons may be issued after a third verified complaint.. To report a barking dog, contact animal control at 864-271-5333 or the police non-emergency line.
When can construction work start in Greenville?
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Greenville's construction noise rules: 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.. Violations can be reported to code enforcement, which can issue stop-work orders for unpermitted or off-hours construction.
Are there rules about loud music in Greenville?
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Yes. Greenville's ordinance: Outdoor amplified sound requires a permit. Permitted events cannot last more than four hours or extend beyond 11:00 p.m... Music exceeding residential decibel limits or plainly audible across property lines during quiet hours is a citable violation.
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