Mount Pleasant, SC Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Mount Pleasant, SC?
| Regulation | Details for Mount Pleasant, SC |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: (843) 743-7200 |
10:00 PM to 7:00 AM (general nighttime). Construction and building operations are prohibited between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM the following day.
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Mount Pleasant, SC Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Mount Pleasant, SC?
Mount Pleasant, SC, noise ordinances, specifically Section 132.03, prohibit "excessive noise" or "unnecessary noise" that disturbs residents' peace and quiet. Construction activities are restricted during nighttime hours, and amplified sound from commercial establishments has specific decibel limits when measured at residential property lines. The Town also conducted a pilot program in 2022 to gather data for potential ordinance modifications.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | Not specified (general absolute limit 65 dB(A)) | Not specified (general absolute limit 65 dB(A)) |
| Commercial | 65 dB(A) (general maximum); 60 dB(A) (amplified sound at residential property line) | 65 dB(A) (general maximum); 60 dB(A) (amplified sound at residential property line) |
Note: The general maximum decibel level is 65 dB(A) unless otherwise specified. Amplified sound from commercial establishments is unlawful if it registers 60 dB(A) at the property line of the nearest residentially occupied property at any time. Another ordinance indicates a sound level exceeding the background sound level by at least 10 dBA during daytime (7:00 AM to 10:00 PM) and by at least 5 dBA during nighttime (10:00 PM to 7:00 AM). For multi-dwelling units, if background cannot be determined, limits are 45 dBA during the day and 35 dBA at night for sound originating in another dwelling. Nonrepetitive impulsive sound sources should not exceed 90 dBA at or within the property line of a residential premises. A 2022 pilot program focused on a measurement of 55 decibels from the property of the individual making the noise complaint.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Building operations are unlawful between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. the following day if they create loud noise or involve machinery, hammers, or saws that produce loud or unusual noises within hearing distance of any resident. Any noise generated from building operations, at any time, that is plainly audible from inside a residence or place of business of a receiving property constitutes a violation.
- Amplified Sound:
Commercial establishments are prohibited from operating sound amplification equipment that creates sounds registering 60 dB(A) at the property line of the nearest residentially occupied property at any time. Amplified sound that is plainly audible from inside a residence or place of business of a receiving property and not originating from the receiving property is a violation.
- Animals:
Animal complaints are handled by the Mount Pleasant Police Department's animal control officers. Unnecessary or excessive noise created by animals would fall under the general noise ordinance.
- Vehicles:
Sound emitting from a motor vehicle's muffler in violation of S.C. Code Ann. § 56-5-5020 is prohibited. A 1992 code mentions a maximum vehicle decibel level of 7.6 dBA according to state standards, which should not be exceeded.
Frequently Asked Questions about Mount Pleasant, SC Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Mount Pleasant, SC?
10:00 PM to 7:00 AM (general nighttime). Construction and building operations are prohibited between 9:00 PM and 7:00 AM the following day.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Mount Pleasant, SC?
Residential areas typically have a limit of Not specified (general absolute limit 65 dB(A)) during the day and Not specified (general absolute limit 65 dB(A)) 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 Mount Pleasant, SC?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Mount Pleasant, SC police non-emergency line at (843) 743-7200. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at (843) 884-1229.