Darlington County, SC Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)

Section 22-96 of the Darlington County Code prohibits creating any unreasonably loud, disturbing or unnecessary noise countywide, defining a violation as noise detrimental to life or health, or disturbing to the quiet and peace of any citizen. Section 22-97 then enumerates specific unlawful acts, and subsection (3) targets sound-amplifying equipment by name: playing a radio, record player, tape recorder, television, musical instrument or other sound-producing or sound-amplifying device in a manner or at a volume that annoys or disturbs the quiet, repose or comfort of any person in a dwelling, hotel or other residence.

The list in § 22-97 is explicitly non-exhaustive, so other loud amplified sound could still violate the general § 22-96 prohibition even if it does not fit the enumerated example exactly. Section 22-98 exempts organized, lawfully permitted performances such as parade bands, lawful manufacturing operations, and permitted vehicle races, which matters for a county that hosts Darlington Raceway events. Section 22-99 excuses noise from emergency work needed for immediate safety or to restore property after a public calamity. Section 22-100 designates the county sheriff's department as the enforcing agency but preserves a resident's right to seek enforcement directly through a magistrate of appropriate jurisdiction, and all violations are prosecuted in the county's magistrate's court.