North Charleston, SC Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in North Charleston, SC?
| Regulation | Details for North Charleston, SC |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 11PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 843-743-7200 |
11PM-7AM for gas-powered equipment; proposed residential quiet hours are 9PM-8AM (Sun-Thu) and 11PM-8AM (Fri-Sat) for certain decibel levels, with outdoor music ceasing by 11PM.
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
North Charleston, SC Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in North Charleston, SC?
North Charleston, SC noise ordinances, specifically Article V - Noises, prohibit unreasonably loud and disturbing noise. This includes the operation of gas-powered lawn mowers, leaf blowers, and similar equipment within 300 feet of a residence between 11 PM and 7 AM. Proposed updates aim to establish specific decibel limits (e.g., 60 dB day, 55 dB night residential) and require outdoor music to cease by 11 PM.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | Not specified (existing ordinance) | Not specified (existing ordinance) |
| Commercial | Not specified (existing ordinance) | Not specified (existing ordinance) |
Note: The existing ordinance does not specify decibel limits, generally prohibiting 'unreasonably loud and disturbing or unnecessary noise'. Proposed changes include residential limits of 60 dB from 8 AM - 9 PM (Sun-Thu) or 11 PM (Fri-Sat), and 55 dB outside those hours. Commercial areas are also subject to specific restrictions.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Operation of gas-powered lawn mowers, leaf blowers, and similar equipment within 300 feet of a residence is prohibited between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
- Amplified Sound:
Unlawful to play amplified music or sounds in private courtyards or outdoor areas audible in public streets after 11:00 p.m. and before 7:00 a.m. Sound trucks require registration, cannot be unreasonably loud beyond 100 feet, are limited to 15 watts, and cannot operate near hospitals or schools. Proposed changes indicate outdoor music must cease by 11 PM.
- Animals:
Any animal making disturbing noises, including repeated howling, barking, or whining causing unreasonable annoyance, disturbance, or discomfort to neighbors, is considered a public nuisance.
- Vehicles:
Unlawful to operate a motor vehicle causing unreasonably loud, excessive, or unusual noise, including rapid throttle advancing (revving) of an engine, disturbing the peace day or night.
Frequently Asked Questions about North Charleston, SC Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in North Charleston, SC?
11PM-7AM for gas-powered equipment; proposed residential quiet hours are 9PM-8AM (Sun-Thu) and 11PM-8AM (Fri-Sat) for certain decibel levels, with outdoor music ceasing by 11PM.. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in North Charleston, SC?
Residential areas typically have a limit of Not specified (existing ordinance) during the day and Not specified (existing ordinance) 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 North Charleston, SC?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the North Charleston, SC police non-emergency line at 843-743-7200. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 843-740-2680.