Arlington vs Keller
How do decibel limits rules compare between Arlington, TX and Keller, TX?
Arlington and Keller have similar restriction levels.
Arlington, TX
Tarrant County
Arlington primarily enforces noise through a plainly-audible and reasonable-person nuisance standard in Chapter 22 rather than a fixed citywide decibel table. Specific decibel thresholds appear in zoning performance standards for industrial-residential boundaries and in special event permits for venues like AT&T Stadium, Globe Life Field, and Choctaw Stadium. For most residential complaints, officers do not require a meter reading to cite.
View full Arlington rules →Keller, TX
Tarrant County
Keller combines a plainly audible standard with dB limits at the receiving property line, typically low 60s dBA daytime and mid 50s dBA nighttime in residential zones.
View full Keller rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Arlington | Keller |
|---|---|---|
| - | - | |
| Day Limit | - | Low 60s dBA residential line |
| Night Limit | - | Mid 50s dBA residential line |
| State Backstop | - | TX Penal 42.01 at 85 dB |
| Measurement | - | A-weighted, slow response |
| Prior Warning | - | Required before 42.01 citation |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Arlington FAQ
Is there a specific decibel limit for residential neighborhoods?
Not a single fixed number. Arlington uses a plainly-audible standard backed by zoning performance values at district boundaries.
Do I need a decibel meter to file a noise complaint?
No. Your observation that the sound is clearly audible in your home is enough to initiate enforcement.
Keller FAQ
What is the nighttime dB limit in Keller?
Residential-boundary nighttime limits are generally in the mid 50s dBA, with additional reduction applied for pure tones or impulsive noise.
Can police measure the noise from my neighbor?
Yes. Keller Code Compliance and Police use calibrated sound-level meters at the property line. Officers must give prior warning before a TX 42.01 citation.
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