Shelby County Code Chapter 16, Article III has no industry-specific decibel standard. Industrial and commercial noise in unincorporated Shelby County is governed by the general Sec. 16-61 ban and the Sec. 16-69 legitimate-business allowance.
The county noise ordinance does not set separate industrial or commercial decibel zones. Business noise is judged under Sec. 16-61's prohibition on unreasonably loud, disturbing and unnecessary noise, and under Sec. 16-63 for amplified sound during the 11:00 p.m.–7:00 a.m. window. Sec. 16-69 expressly states the article 'is not intended to prohibit engagement in any legitimate business activities so long as such activities do not unreasonably interfere with the use and enjoyment of surrounding residential and commercial areas.' Repeated violations become a public nuisance abatable by injunction under Sec. 16-68. Zoning (Chapter 26) separately governs where industrial uses may locate.
Industrial or commercial noise that unreasonably interferes with surrounding areas violates Sec. 16-61 and Sec. 16-69, drawing a fine up to $50.00 per violation under Sec. 16-67; repeated violations are a nuisance under Sec. 16-68.
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