Quiet hours in Cornelius, NC — also called the noise ordinance, nighttime noise rules, or residential quiet time — define the hours during which excessive noise is prohibited.
Cornelius Code of Ordinances Chapter 50 (Noise) establishes nighttime quiet hours from 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM. Loud and disturbing sounds audible at property lines during these hours are prohibited. Lake Norman waterfront areas receive particular attention due to sound travel over water.
The town regulates noise under Chapter 50 of the Code pursuant to N.C.G.S. 160A-184. Plainly audible sounds from residential property beyond 50 feet during quiet hours (11 PM-7 AM) constitute a violation. Sounds crossing Lake Norman can travel unusually far and are evaluated at the receiving property line. The Cornelius Police Department handles complaints; repeat violations escalate to criminal summons under N.C.G.S. 14-288.4 disorderly conduct.
First offense typically results in warning. Civil penalties begin at 50 dollars and may increase to 500 dollars for repeat violations within 12 months. Criminal citation possible as Class 2 misdemeanor under state disorderly conduct statute.
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