Rutherford County, TN Noise from Specific Sources: HVAC & Mechanical Noise (2026)

Section 1101 C of the Zoning Ordinance lists obstructions that may sit inside a required yard without triggering a yard-encroachment violation, provided they still comply with Subsections 1101 A (vision triangle) and B (fences). e places HVAC equipment on that list, but only in a rear or side yard behind the principal structure, and only if the unit is no closer than 18 inches to a property line. Separately, Section 1106 B sets county-wide performance standards for noise. 1 already bars any use that creates 'dangerous, injurious, noxious, or otherwise objectionable' noise or vibration affecting adjoining property.

4-1971 sound level meter, using fast response for impact noises and slow response for steady-state noise such as a running compressor or fan. for residential adjacency, 75 dBA around the clock for industrial, and 65/60 dBA day/night for all other uses. d exempts emergency warning devices, daytime lawn care equipment and daytime construction equipment, but a continuously running condenser or heat pump has no such exemption. A homeowner running central air within 18 inches of a neighbor's line, or whose unit reads above 60 dBA at the line during the day, is out of compliance on both counts.