Charleston, SC Noise Ordinance
Quiet Hours: Generally, excessive, unnecessary, or unreasonable noise that is plainly audible is prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. in Charleston County. For amplified sound in City of Charleston courtyards/outdoor areas, the hours are 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. Construction noise is restricted from 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. on weekdays, 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m. on Saturdays, and all day on Sundays and major holidays.
Residential Decibel Limit: Not specified; plainly audible within 500 feet of residential property or above 70 dBA prohibited. (Day) / Not specified; plainly audible within 500 feet of residential property or above 70 dBA prohibited, and any plainly audible excessive, unnecessary, or unreasonable sound prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. (Night)
Summary: Charleston, SC noise ordinances, including Charleston County Ordinance #2231, prohibit excessive, unnecessary, or unreasonable noise plainly audible within 500 feet of a residential property or above 70 dBA, especially between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.. The City of Charleston also regulates loud and unnecessary noises, amplified sound, and has specific restrictions for construction activities. A new city construction noise ordinance, effective June 10, 2025, sets strict hours for noisy work.