Buncombe County, NC Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

Use of vehicles. The use of any automobile, motorcycle, or vehicle so out of repair, so loaded, or operated in such a manner as to create loud or unnecessary grating, grinding, rattling, screeching of tires or other noises.

(5) Blowing whistles. The blowing of any steam whistle to any stationary boiler except as a warning of danger.

(6) Exhaust discharge. The discharge into open air of the exhaust of any steam engine, stationary internal combustion engine, or motor vehicle, except through a muffler or other device which will effectively prevent loud or explosive noises therefrom.

(7) Compressed air devices. The use of any mechanical device operated by compressed air unless the noise created thereby is effectively muffled and reduced.

(8) Discharging firearms. Discharging a firearm within 300 feet of an occupied residential structure without the occupants express approval.

(9) Building operations. The erection (including excavation) demolition, alteration, or repair of any building in a residential district between the hours of 6 p.m. and 7 a.m. of any day, except in the case of urgent necessity in the interest of public safety and then only with a permit from the county manager, which permit may be renewed for a period of three days or less while the emergency continues.

(10) Noises near schools, etc. The creation of any excessive noise on any street adjacent to any school, institution