Moving to Bixby, OK?
Here are the local rules you need to know before you unpack.
Every city has its own set of local ordinances that go beyond state and federal law. From when you can mow your lawn to whether you can park your RV in the driveway, these rules affect daily life in ways most people do not expect. This guide covers the key ordinances in Bixby across 11 categories and 41 specific rules we track.
๐ Noise Ordinances
Noise rules affect everything from weekend parties to lawn care schedules. Quiet hours, construction restrictions, and barking dog limits vary widely between cities.
Amplified Music & Events
Some RestrictionsBixby regulates amplified music under the general noise ordinance. Sound amplification permits available for events. 21 O.S. ยง1289 applies.
Barking Dogs
Some RestrictionsBixby addresses animal noise under its animal control provisions and general nuisance ordinances. Persistent barking that disturbs neighbors can be reported to Bixby Police Animal Control at (918) 366-8294. The leash law requires dogs to be secured by a device not exceeding 8 feet when off the owner's property.
Quiet Hours
Some RestrictionsBixby Code of Ordinances Title 5 (Public Safety), Chapter 5 (Offenses) addresses disturbing the peace and noise violations. Oklahoma state law (21 O.S. ยง1362) provides the baseline, making it unlawful to willfully disturb the peace with unreasonably loud noise. Conviction carries up to $100 fine and/or 30 days jail under state law.
Construction Hours
Some RestrictionsBixby does not have a separate construction-hours ordinance. Construction noise is regulated under general nuisance and disturbing-the-peace provisions in Title 5. Oklahoma state law (21 O.S. ยง1362) applies as the baseline. Excessive construction noise during nighttime hours is enforceable under general provisions.
๐ Short-Term Rentals
If you plan to rent out your home on Airbnb or VRBO - even occasionally - you need to know the local STR rules before listing.
Occupancy Limits
Few RestrictionsBixby has no dedicated short-term rental ordinance and does not impose a numeric overnight occupancy cap on STRs. The city's Title 11 (Zoning Regulations) does not list a vacation rental, transient lodging, or home-sharing use unit; the closest classifications are Use Unit 8 (multi-family/rooming-boarding) and Use Unit 19 (hotel and motel). Operators in residential districts must rely on general housing-density and nuisance limits and contact the Community Development Department at (918) 366-4430 for use-category guidance.
Insurance Requirements
Few RestrictionsBixby does not require short-term rental operators to carry liability insurance as a condition of operating, because the city's Title 11 (Zoning Regulations) and Title 5 (Public Safety) contain no STR-specific permit, registration, or insurance provisions. Hosts are subject only to general state-law standards and any insurance terms imposed by their listing platform. Oklahoma sales tax (4.5%) and Tulsa County hotel-tax authority under 68 O.S. Section 1370.1 still apply to gross rental receipts.
Permit Requirements
Some RestrictionsBixby does not have a specific short-term rental ordinance as of the 2023 zoning code update. STR operations must comply with general zoning and business licensing requirements under Title 11 (Zoning Regulations). Oklahoma state sales tax (4.5%) applies to rental income. Contact the Bixby Planning Department for current STR eligibility in your zoning district.
Taxes & Fees
Some RestrictionsBixby STR operators must comply with Oklahoma state sales tax (4.5%) on rental income. Tulsa County may levy up to 5% hotel tax under 68 O.S. ยง1370.1. Operators must register with the Oklahoma Tax Commission for state tax collection. Local business licensing may be required through the City of Bixby.
Parking Rules
Some RestrictionsBixby does not have STR-specific parking rules. General residential parking requirements from Title 11 (Zoning Regulations) apply. Vehicles must be parked on improved surfaces. The 2023 zoning code update addressed parking standards. Contact the Planning Department for specific requirements in your zoning district.
Noise Rules
Some RestrictionsBixby's general noise and nuisance ordinances apply to any short-term rental operations. Title 5, Chapter 5 (Offenses) governs disturbing the peace. Oklahoma state law (21 O.S. ยง1362) provides the baseline for noise enforcement. STR operators are responsible for guest behavior.
๐ฅ Fire Regulations
Fire pit rules, fireworks restrictions, and brush clearance requirements are especially important if you are coming from a state with different fire risk profiles.
Fireworks
Some RestrictionsBixby requires a $20 permit to discharge fireworks within city limits, purchasable from the city or licensed vendors. Fireworks must be on noncombustible surfaces at least 25 feet from structures. The adult permit holder must be within 100 feet of the display. Sales season is June 15 through July 4. Children under 12 need adult supervision. The city adopts the 2015 ICC Fire Code.
Outdoor Burning
Heavy RestrictionsBixby adopts the 2015 ICC Fire Code, which generally prohibits open burning within city limits. Recreational fires and barbecue grills are typically exempt. In unincorporated Tulsa County near Bixby, a burning variance from the Tulsa Health Department is required (no fee). Contact Bixby Fire Department for specific open burning rules.
Fire Pit Rules
Some RestrictionsBixby follows the 2015 ICC Fire Code for recreational fires. Fire pits are generally permitted as recreational fires exempt from open burning prohibitions. Standard IFC requirements apply: fuel area 3 feet or less in diameter, 25 feet from structures, noncombustible materials. Conditions that could cause fire spread must be eliminated before ignition.
๐ Parking Rules
Parking rules catch more new residents off guard than almost any other ordinance. RV storage, overnight parking bans, and driveway regulations vary significantly.
RV & Boat Parking
Some RestrictionsBixby Title 11 (Zoning Regulations) addresses RV storage in residential areas. RVs are not permitted for permanent residential occupancy. Storage must be on improved surfaces. Front-yard RV storage may be restricted depending on zoning district. Contact the Planning Department for specific RV parking rules.
Street Parking Limits
Some RestrictionsBixby enforces parking regulations under its Code of Ordinances. Vehicles must be parked on improved surfaces. Abandoned or inoperable vehicles on public streets are subject to citation and towing. The 2023 zoning code update addressed parking standards for residential and commercial areas.
Driveway Rules
Some RestrictionsBixby requires all residential parking to be on improved surfaces. Parking on lawns or unimproved areas is a code violation. Driveways must meet city engineering standards. The Code Enforcement office handles parking surface complaints. Contact the Bixby Police Department Code Enforcement at 116 W. Needles Ave.
Commercial Vehicle Restrictions
Some RestrictionsBixby zoning regulations restrict commercial vehicle parking in residential districts. Large commercial vehicles not customary to residential use must be stored in enclosed structures or on commercially-zoned property. Title 11 (Zoning Regulations) governs permitted uses by district. The 2023 zoning update may have revised commercial vehicle provisions.
๐งฑ Fence Regulations
Planning to put up a fence? Height limits, material restrictions, and permit requirements differ by city - and sometimes by which side of the property the fence sits on.
Permit Requirements
Some RestrictionsBixby may require permits for fence construction depending on height and type. The city has adopted the 2015 IRC. Code Enforcement lists fence issues as a complaint category. Contact the Planning Department or Building Inspections for specific permit requirements before starting construction.
Neighbor Fence Rules
Few RestrictionsOklahoma has no shared-cost statute for boundary fences. Bixby allows fences to be built up to the property line. A survey is recommended before construction. Oklahoma is an open-range state. Fence disputes between neighbors are civil matters and not adjudicated by the city.
Height Limits
Some RestrictionsBixby zoning regulations under Title 11 address fence height limits in residential districts. Standard Oklahoma norms apply: 4 feet in front yards, 6-8 feet in side and rear yards. The 2023 zoning code update may have revised fence provisions. Code Enforcement lists fence issues as a complaint category. Contact the Planning Department for current height limits in your zoning district.
๐ Animal Ordinances
Pet owners and aspiring chicken keepers should check local animal ordinances before signing a lease or closing on a home.
Breed Restrictions
Few RestrictionsBixby does not have breed-specific legislation. Oklahoma state law prohibits breed-specific regulations, requiring dangerous dog laws to be breed-neutral per 4 O.S. ยง46. A recent court ruling confirmed that even home-rule cities may not pass breed-specific laws conflicting with state law. Dogs are evaluated individually based on behavior.
Dog Leash Laws
Some RestrictionsBixby's leash law requires all dogs and cats to be secured by a strap, chain, rope, cord, leash, or other device not exceeding 8 feet in length when off the owner's property, held by a competent person to prevent the dog from attacking any person. All pets must be rabies vaccinated per state law. Animal-inflicted injuries should be reported to Bixby Police Animal Control at (918) 366-8294.
Exotic Pets
Some RestrictionsBixby regulates exotic pet ownership through its animal control provisions in the Code of Ordinances. Dangerous wild animals such as large cats, bears, and non-human primates are typically restricted. Oklahoma state wildlife possession regulations also apply. Contact Bixby Police Animal Control at (918) 366-8294 for specific species restrictions.
Beekeeping
Few RestrictionsBixby does not have a specific beekeeping ordinance. Beekeeping is generally permitted subject to general nuisance provisions. Oklahoma state law does not prohibit urban beekeeping. Hobbyists should maintain hives so they do not create a public nuisance. Contact the Planning Department for any zoning-specific restrictions.
Chickens & Livestock
Some RestrictionsBixby allows up to 6 hens on residential lots one-half acre or larger. No roosters in residential zones. The city's agricultural heritage along the Arkansas River bottomland means properties zoned agricultural have broader livestock rights.
๐ฟ Landscaping Rules
From grass height limits to tree removal permits, landscaping rules can surprise new homeowners, especially in drought-prone areas with water restrictions.
Weed Ordinances
Some RestrictionsBixby enforces weed abatement. Oklahoma Noxious Weed Law (2 O.S. ยง3-101) applies statewide. County weed boards enforce.
Water Restrictions
Some RestrictionsBixby may implement staged water restrictions during drought conditions. The city manages its own water supply. Voluntary conservation measures may be requested during high-demand periods. Oklahoma does not have statewide mandatory watering restrictions, but municipalities may impose them during supply shortages.
Grass Height Limits
Some RestrictionsBixby enforces high grass and weed violations through its Code Enforcement division (Bixby Police Department). The height limit follows Oklahoma state law (11 O.S. ยง22-111) at 12 inches. Violations can be reported via the Code Enforcement Complaint Form online or at the Bixby Police Department, 116 W. Needles Ave. Repeat violations within 6 months may be abated at the owner's expense.
Tree Trimming
Some RestrictionsBixby property owners must maintain trees to prevent hazards. Dead or damaged trees posing a danger must be removed. Oklahoma law allows trimming neighbor's branches at the property line without harming the tree's health. The 2023 zoning code update addressed landscaping standards. Contact the Planning Department for specific tree-related requirements.
Tree Removal & Heritage Trees
Some RestrictionsBixby zoning regulations address tree preservation and landscaping standards. The 2023 zoning code update included community input on landscaping requirements. Dead or hazardous trees must be removed by the property owner. Contact the Planning Department for any tree removal permit requirements.
๐ผ Home Business
Working from home is common, but running a business from home often requires permits and must comply with zoning restrictions on customer traffic and signage.
Zoning Restrictions
Some RestrictionsBixby Title 11 (Zoning Regulations) governs home occupations in residential districts. Home businesses must be incidental and secondary to residential use. The 2023 zoning code update may have revised home occupation provisions. Contact the Planning Department for current regulations on home-based businesses in your zoning district.
Signage Rules
Heavy RestrictionsBixby zoning regulations restrict signage in residential districts. Home business signs are not permitted in residential areas. The 2023 zoning code update addressed sign standards as part of community input. Residential areas are limited to address identification and small non-commercial signs.
Customer Traffic Restrictions
Some RestrictionsBixby's home occupation rules require business activity to not disrupt the residential character of the neighborhood. Customer traffic must be minimal and consistent with residential use. Businesses attracting significant visitors may not qualify as home occupations. Contact the Planning Department for current traffic restrictions.
๐ Swimming Pools & Spas
Pool ownership comes with safety fencing requirements, permit obligations, and drainage rules that vary by jurisdiction.
Above-Ground Pools
Some RestrictionsAbove-ground pools in Bixby with water deeper than 24 inches must meet the same barrier requirements as in-ground pools (48-inch fence). Ladders must be removable or securable to prevent unsupervised access. The same 2015 IRC standards apply. A permit may be required depending on pool size and installation.
Fencing Requirements
Heavy RestrictionsBixby follows the Oklahoma Residential Code (2015 IRC) requiring all pools deeper than 24 inches to be enclosed by a barrier at least 48 inches high. Gates must be self-closing and self-latching. Swimming pool violations are tracked by Code Enforcement. Building permits are required for pool installation. Contact the Planning Department or Building Inspections for permit requirements.
Safety Rules
Heavy RestrictionsBixby requires pool compliance with the adopted 2015 IRC. Pools deeper than 24 inches need barriers. If the dwelling forms part of the barrier, door alarms or a powered safety cover is required. Above-ground pool ladders must be removable or securable. Spas/hot tubs with childproof covers may be exempt. A building permit and inspection are required.
๐๏ธ Accessory Structures
Thinking about an ADU, shed, or garage conversion? Local rules on accessory structures have changed rapidly in recent years, especially in California.
Carport Rules
Some RestrictionsBixby Title 11 (Zoning Regulations) Section 11-8-8.B.9 caps a carport at 400 square feet, requires a side-yard setback equal to the principal building line or at least five feet (whichever is greater), and prohibits any carport from extending more than 20 feet beyond the front of the principal dwelling. A carport occupying any required yard needs Board of Adjustment special exception approval under Section 11-4-9.A.8; carports outside required yards are permitted by right.
ADU Rules
Some RestrictionsBixby Title 11 (Zoning Regulations) addresses accessory dwelling units. Special exception approval may be required for accessory structures used as dwellings. The approval expires upon one year from building permit issuance or completion of construction. Structures may not be used as dwelling units permanently or temporarily without approved ADU status. The 2023 zoning update may have revised ADU provisions.
Shed Rules
Some RestrictionsBixby requires building permits for accessory structures including sheds. The city has adopted the 2015 IRC. Setback requirements vary by zoning district under Title 11 (Zoning Regulations). The 2023 zoning code update addressed development standards. Contact Building Inspections for specific permit requirements.
Garage Conversions
Some RestrictionsGarage conversions in Bixby require a building permit. The conversion must meet 2015 IRC standards for habitable space including egress, ventilation, and electrical. A change of occupancy review may be needed. If converted to an ADU, special exception approval is required. Contact Building Inspections for specific requirements.
๐ Environmental Rules
Overall: What to Expect in Bixby
Bixby has 41 ordinances on file across 11 categories. Of these, 5 are rated permissive, 31 moderate, and 5 strict. This gives you a general sense of how tightly regulated daily life is in Bixby compared to other cities.
Rules can change, and enforcement varies. Always verify specific requirements with the city directly before making major decisions like building a fence, listing on Airbnb, or starting a home business.