Industrial and commercial noise in unincorporated Guilford County is governed by Sec. 11-8, which reaches business entities. Compressed-air devices, steam whistles and engine exhaust must be muffled, and zoning is a factor. Bona fide farm operations are exempt from the noise ordinance.
Sec. 11-8 applies to persons and business entities alike. It specifically limits industrial-type noise: steam whistles must not be blown unreasonably except as a danger warning (b)(6); stationary internal-combustion and steam-engine exhaust must pass through an effective muffler (b)(7); and compressed-air devices must be muffled and reduced (b)(8). The reasonableness factors include the character, nature and zoning of the area, so a use permitted in an industrial zone is weighed differently than one near homes. Noise from a bona fide farm or farming operation (as defined in G.S. 153A-340(b)(2)) is exempt. The rules cover unincorporated county areas.
Business violators face Sec. 11-8 civil penalties of $200/$400/$500 for repeat offenses within a year; also a Class 3 misdemeanor and potential injunction/abatement.
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See how Guilford County's industrial noise rules stack up against other locations.
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