Noise from the normal operations of any commercial or industrial enterprise is exempt from Buncombe County's noise ordinance, except for electronically amplified sound. Malfunctioning or unmuffled equipment can still be cited.
Sec. 26-184(4) exempts noise resulting from the normal operations of any commercial or industrial enterprise, except electronically amplified sound. So routine plant, quarry, or factory noise in the unincorporated county is generally outside the ordinance. But Sec. 26-181(b)(6),(7),(14),(15) still reach unmuffled engines, compressed-air devices, blowers, and appliances that, due to malfunction or disrepair, make loud excessive noise. Land-use compatibility for industry is handled instead through the county's zoning/UDO. Inside incorporated towns, the town's own noise and zoning codes apply.
For non-exempt noise, a class 3 misdemeanor and fine up to $200 under Sec. 26-186. The Buncombe County Sheriff enforces in unincorporated areas.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Buncombe County, NC
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See how Buncombe County's industrial noise rules stack up against other locations.
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