York County, VA Noise from Specific Sources: Generator Noise (2026)

Section 16-19.2(e) of York County's noise ordinance addresses 'exhaust discharges and mechanical noises' directly. It bars discharging into open air the exhaust of any steam or diesel engine, stationary internal combustion engine, chain saw, power mower, motorboat, or motor vehicle unless the discharge passes through a fully operational muffler or similar sound attenuation device. Unlike several of the ordinance's other prohibitions in Sec. 16-19.2, subsection (e) does not require the noise to be plainly audible at a particular distance or during specific hours; the absence of a functioning muffler is itself the violation, at any time of day.

The provision reaches portable generators, whole-house standby generators, and any similar stationary engine, alongside power equipment like chain saws and lawn mowers and even motorboats and cars. It was adopted by the Board of Supervisors as Ord. No. 10-8(R-1) on January 18, 2011, as part of Sections 16-19 through 16-19.6, following the Board's finding in Sec. 16-19 that excessive noise threatens public health, welfare, peace, safety and quality of life. A separate exception in Sec. 16-19.5(f) permits some heating, refrigeration and air conditioning equipment noise, but generators and internal combustion engines are not listed among the Sec.

16-19.5 exceptions, so a generator running without proper muffling is not excused even during an emergency. Complaints about unmuffled generator or engine noise are handled by the York County Sheriff's Office. Because subsection (e) is a strict equipment-condition standard rather than a decibel or time limit, an inspecting deputy can cite a bare or damaged muffler on sight without measuring sound levels or timing the duration.