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Step 1 of 3Mount Pleasant, SC
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"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."
AI Executive Summary
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.
Specific Noise 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.
Noise Protection Score
How well does Mount Pleasant protect residents from noise?
Qualitative standard
Extensive coverage
Minimal enforcement
4 noise categories regulated
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the quiet hours in Mount Pleasant, SC?
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Mount Pleasant's quiet hours: 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.. 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 Mount Pleasant?
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Mount Pleasant's residential noise limits: Not specified (general absolute limit 65 dB(A)) dB(A) during the day and Not specified (general absolute limit 65 dB(A)) dB(A) at night. Commercial zones allow 65 dB(A) (general maximum); 60 dB(A) (amplified sound at residential property line). Limits are measured at the receiving property line.
How do I file a noise complaint in Mount Pleasant?
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Call the Mount Pleasant police non-emergency line at (843) 743-7200. For ongoing violations, contact code enforcement at (843) 884-1229. Have the address, noise type, and duration ready. You can request to remain anonymous.
What is the fine for a noise violation in Mount Pleasant?
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Mount Pleasant's noise violation penalties: Not specified. Fines typically escalate with repeat offenses and may result in misdemeanor charges for chronic violations.
What are the dog barking rules in Mount Pleasant?
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Mount Pleasant's rules: 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.. To report a barking dog, contact animal control at (843) 743-7200 or the police non-emergency line.
When can construction work start in Mount Pleasant?
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Mount Pleasant's construction noise rules: 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.. 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 Mount Pleasant?
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Yes. Mount Pleasant's ordinance: 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.. Music exceeding residential decibel limits or plainly audible across property lines during quiet hours is a citable violation.
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