Neighbors running a generator 24/7 since February 2024 in Buncombe County—what options are actually left?
Looking for advice from anyone who has dealt with something similar in Buncombe County.
My neighbors have been living off a generator since February 2024, running it around the clock. That’s more than two and a half years of ongoing generator noise, and I’m beyond frustrated trying to get a clear answer about what can actually be done.
So far:
Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office: Has come out, but the situation continues.
Permits and Inspections: Told me they checked into it, but nothing has changed.
Environmental Health: Came out and told me the neighbors are allowed to have a privy. That addressed the sanitation question, but it didn’t resolve the generator issue.
I understand people can have difficult circumstances. But years of constant generator noise is a lot to expect neighboring households to tolerate. This started months before Helene. This is their everyday power setup, and I’m trying to understand what rules apply to its operation and impact on surrounding properties.
I’ve found conflicting information online about noise ordinances, minimum housing standards, and generators used as a primary power source. I don’t want to keep quoting something that turns out to be wrong or getting bounced between departments.
Has anyone successfully dealt with this locally?
Which department actually has authority over continuous residential generator noise?
How do I get a written explanation of what was inspected, what rules were considered, and why no enforcement action was taken?
What documentation is useful—recordings, a dated noise log, professional sound measurements?
If the departments I’ve contacted haven’t resolved it, is there a legitimate escalation route or a local attorney who handles nuisance disputes?
I’m looking for lawful, practical options and firsthand experience.
At this point, “call the county” hasn’t gotten me anywhere.