Can you be fined for mowing the lawn too early or late in Myrtle Beach, SC area? What the law says

If you’re trying to sleep in this summer, hearing a lawn mower first thing in the morning can be a rude awakening. But yard work has to happen and the afternoon sun can make outdoor chores miserable.

Here’s what the law says about when you can run noisy agricultural equipment in the Myrtle Beach area.

Myrtle Beach

According to Myrtle Beach’s Code of Ordinances, operating equipment like lawn mowers, chainsaws and blowers in residential areas is permitted between the hours of 7:00 am and 9:00 pm.

Use of this equipment outside of the permitted hours is a misdemeanor that can be punished by a fine up to $500, imprisonment up to 30 days or both.

North Myrtle Beach

North Myrtle Beach’s Code of Ordinances allows for the operation of lawn mowers, agricultural equipment and hobby equipment between 7:00 am and 10:00 pm.

As in Myrtle Beach, operating the equipment after 10:00 pm or before 7:00 am is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine not to exceed $500, up to 30 days in jail or both.

Surfside Beach

Surfside Beach’s Code of Ordinances also limits the use of lawn mowers and agricultural equipment to the hours between 7:00 am and 10:00 pm.

Running yard equipment outside these hours is a misdemeanor in Surfside, too, and could result in a fine up to $500 and/or a maximum of 30 days in jail.

If you live in a neighborhood with a homeowners association or condo association, be sure to check local regulations. While cities are clear about what the law says, your local authorities may still fine you for not following their rules.

This story was originally published July 10, 2024 at 6:00 AM.