Greenville, SC
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Greenville, SC.
Ordinance Summary
Greenville, SC's noise ordinance (Chapter 16, Article II, Division 3) prohibits noise that significantly disturbs residents' comfortable enjoyment of public or private property. Recent amendments refined measurement distances and police enforcement discretion. While city-specific decibel limits for zones are not readily published, the ordinance aims to reduce excessive and unnecessary noise, ensuring a peaceful urban environment.
Quiet Hours
Generally 11 PM to 7 AM, with specific exceptions for activities like construction and permitted amplified sound events.
Police Non-Emergency
864-271-5333Decibel Limits
"The City of Greenville's ordinance primarily prohibits noise that 'substantially interferes with the comfortable enjoyment of persons of ordinary sensibilities'. Recent amendments specify decibel measurement distances: 3 feet from the source in the central business district and 10 feet outside the central business district. For Greenville County (outside city limits), the general limit is 70 dB(A) from 7 AM to 10 PM and 60 dB(A) from 10 PM to 7 AM."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Greenville, SC code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction and related activities are exempt from noise prohibitions between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. on Saturdays, and 9:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. on Sundays.
Outdoor amplified sound requires a permit. Permitted events cannot last more than four hours or extend beyond 11:00 p.m..
Nuisance barking, defined as persistent, excessive, and without clear external provocation, is prohibited. A summons may be issued after a third verified complaint.
Intentional revving of engines, blaring music, and amplified yelling/screaming are grounds for citation. In Greenville County, it is unlawful for sound-producing devices in motor vehicles to be audible at a distance of 50 feet. Off-road vehicle use is prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. off-road, except for emergency purposes or to access public rights-of-way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
Generally 11 PM to 7 AM, with specific exceptions for activities like construction and permitted amplified sound events..
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: 864-271-5333.
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Official Sources
- greenville.com
- reddit.com
- azurewebsites.us
- youtube.com
- azurewebsites.us
- gcso.org
- gcso.org
- greenvillesc.gov
- greenvillesc.gov
- greenvillesc.gov
- greenvillesc.gov
- greenvillecounty.org
- greenvillecounty.org
- greenvillecounty.org
- greenvillecounty.org
- southcarolinacountyoffices.com
- greenvillesc.gov
- greenvillecounty.org
- azurewebsites.us
- nonoise.org
- greenvillecounty.org
- youtube.com
Noise Solutions for Greenville, SC
SolvedBest Gear for Greenville, SC Residents
Ultrasonic Bark Control
Humane deterrent that emits a high-frequency sound when it detects barking.
Loop Quiet Ear Plugs
The "gold standard" for sleeping. Reduces noise by 24dB without the pain of foam plugs.
1/2" Thick Rug Pad
Essential for the "80% Rule." Adds density to rugs to absorb footfall impact noise for downstairs neighbors.
Hemp Calming Chews
Natural relief for dog anxiety. Perfect for separation anxiety barking or fear of fireworks.
ThunderShirt for Dogs
The best solution for anxiety-induced barking (fireworks, thunder, separation).
Marpac Dohm Classic
The original fan-based machine. Unlike digital loops, this creates real rushing air sound.
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