Mebane, NC Noise from Specific Sources: Generator Noise (2026)

Chapter 14's noise article doesn't name portable generators specifically, but its enumeration in § 14-125, which the section itself says "shall not be deemed to be exclusive," lists "appliances and other mechanical devices" that cause loud and excessive noise "due to operational deficiencies, malfunction or other type of disrepair." A generator that's noisy because it's out of repair or malfunctioning falls squarely within that clause. A generator that's simply loud while running as intended instead falls back on the broader standard in § 14-121, which bans "unreasonably loud, disturbing and unnecessary noise" in the city; § 14-122 defines "unreasonably loud" as noise substantially incompatible with the time and location where it's created, and § 14-123 lists the factors officers weigh: time of day, proximity to homes, volume and intensity, whether the sound is mechanically amplified, the character and zoning of the area, and whether it's tied to a normal business or labor activity.

Enforcement runs through § 14-124, which gives the city discretion to issue a misdemeanor warrant under the general penalty in § 1-6, or a civil citation carrying a $50.00 per day penalty due within ten days, with a further $50.00 delinquency charge added if the penalty isn't paid on time.