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The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3Charleston, WV
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"The West Virginia State Code §61-6-26 prohibits 'disturbing or unreasonably loud noise' but does not specify decibel limits."
AI Executive Summary
Charleston, WV, primarily addresses noise through West Virginia State Code §61-6-26, known as "Disturbing the Peace." This law broadly prohibits any "disturbing or unreasonably loud noise" that disrupts a neighborhood's peace, quiet, and comfort. Specific decibel limits are not defined at the city level, but certain activities are enumerated as potential violations, including animal noises, vehicle sounds, and amplified music.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
Not specified in a general city noise ordinance. Construction noise may be subject to the general 'disturbing the peace' statute.
Amplified Sound
West Virginia State Code §61-6-26 prohibits amplified musical systems for advertising purposes in residential areas between 8:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m. if they disturb the peace.
Animals
West Virginia State Code §61-6-26 lists 'Keeping, harboring or having custody within the State of West Virginia any dog which barks, howls, or makes noises by day or night which disturbs the peace' as a type of disturbing noise.
Vehicles
West Virginia State Code §61-6-26 prohibits noises from vehicles such as operating at excessive speed to create tire squealing, unnecessary sounding of horns, and exhaust systems not equipped to prevent disturbing or unreasonably loud noise. Revving engines while not in motion is also prohibited, except for repairs during reasonable hours.
Noise Protection Score
How well does Charleston protect residents from noise?
Qualitative standard
Standard coverage
Strong penalties with escalation
4 noise categories regulated
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the quiet hours in Charleston, WV?
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Charleston's quiet hours: Not specified. 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 Charleston?
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Charleston'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 Charleston?
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Call the Charleston police non-emergency line at 304-348-8111, 304-348-6400. For ongoing violations, contact code enforcement at 304-348-8105 x362 (Zone A), 304-348-8105 x367 (Zone B). Have the address, noise type, and duration ready. You can request to remain anonymous.
What is the fine for a noise violation in Charleston?
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Charleston's noise violation penalties: Violation of the West Virginia 'Disturbing the Peace' statute (§61-6-26) is a misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $1,000, confinement in jail for not more than six months, or both.. Fines typically escalate with repeat offenses and may result in misdemeanor charges for chronic violations.
What are the dog barking rules in Charleston?
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Charleston's rules: West Virginia State Code §61-6-26 lists 'Keeping, harboring or having custody within the State of West Virginia any dog which barks, howls, or makes noises by day or night which disturbs the peace' as a type of disturbing noise.. To report a barking dog, contact animal control at 304-342-1576 ext. 118 or the police non-emergency line.
When can construction work start in Charleston?
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Charleston's construction noise rules: Not specified in a general city noise ordinance. Construction noise may be subject to the general 'disturbing the peace' statute.. 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 Charleston?
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Yes. Charleston's ordinance: West Virginia State Code §61-6-26 prohibits amplified musical systems for advertising purposes in residential areas between 8:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m. if they disturb the peace.. Music exceeding residential decibel limits or plainly audible across property lines during quiet hours is a citable violation.
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