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Step 1 of 3Rock Hill, SC
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"The Rock Hill ordinance defines noise based on subjective criteria of being 'unreasonably loud, disturbing' rather than specific decibel levels. York County's ordinance mentions a 5 decibel reduction for residential boundaries between 7 PM and 7 AM."
AI Executive Summary
Rock Hill, SC noise ordinances, under Division 2 of Article V, Chapter 20, prohibit unreasonably loud, disturbing noises that endanger comfort or repose. Key restrictions include construction noise between 9 PM and 7 AM in residential areas, unmuffled engines, and animals causing frequent disturbances. Violations result in a summons for Municipal Court.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
Building operations, including the use of piledrivers, steam shovels, pneumatic hammers, derricks, steam or electric hoists, or other loud apparatus, are prohibited between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. in residential areas, except by permission from the council.
Amplified Sound
The use of any drum or other instrument or device for attracting attention by creating noise to any performance, show, or sale is prohibited. General amplified sound falls under the 'unreasonably loud, disturbing noise' prohibition.
Animals
The keeping of any animal that causes frequent or long-continued noise, disturbing the comfort or repose of persons in the vicinity, is prohibited.
Vehicles
The use of any automobile, motorcycle, or vehicle so out of repair, so loaded, or operated in such a manner as to create loud and unnecessary grating, grinding, rattling, or other noise is prohibited. Noisy exhausts are also specifically prohibited.
Noise Protection Score
How well does Rock Hill 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 Rock Hill, SC?
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Rock Hill's quiet hours: Specific quiet hours for building operations in residential areas are from 9:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. General noise is subjectively evaluated for being unreasonably loud or disturbing.. 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 Rock Hill?
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Rock Hill'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 Rock Hill?
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Call the Rock Hill police non-emergency line at 803-329-7211. For ongoing violations, contact code enforcement at 803-329-7014. Have the address, noise type, and duration ready. You can request to remain anonymous.
What is the fine for a noise violation in Rock Hill?
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Rock Hill's noise violation penalties: Violations of the noise ordinance can result in an officer issuing a summons for Municipal Court. Specific fine amounts are not detailed in the provided ordinance snippets.. Fines typically escalate with repeat offenses and may result in misdemeanor charges for chronic violations.
What are the dog barking rules in Rock Hill?
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Rock Hill's rules: The keeping of any animal that causes frequent or long-continued noise, disturbing the comfort or repose of persons in the vicinity, is prohibited.. To report a barking dog, contact animal control at 803-628-3190 or the police non-emergency line.
When can construction work start in Rock Hill?
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Rock Hill's construction noise rules: Building operations, including the use of piledrivers, steam shovels, pneumatic hammers, derricks, steam or electric hoists, or other loud apparatus, are prohibited between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. in residential areas, except by permission from the council.. 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 Rock Hill?
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Yes. Rock Hill's ordinance: The use of any drum or other instrument or device for attracting attention by creating noise to any performance, show, or sale is prohibited. General amplified sound falls under the 'unreasonably loud, disturbing noise' prohibition.. Music exceeding residential decibel limits or plainly audible across property lines during quiet hours is a citable violation.
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