Garland, TX Noise from Specific Sources: HVAC & Mechanical Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Code Section
- Chapter 22, Art. V
- Residential Limit
- Ambient +15 dB(A)
- HVAC Exception
- At mfr. spec levels
- Administrator
- Health Director
Summary
Properly maintained residential HVAC equipment operating at manufacturer-rated sound levels is permitted even if it exceeds the general ambient limit, with Health Director approval.
DISORDERLY CONDUCT. (a) A person commits an offense if he intentionally or knowingly: ... (5) makes unreasonable noise in a public place other than a sport shooting range, as defined by Section 250.001, Local Government Code, or in or near a private residence that he has no right to occupy ... (c) For purposes of this section: ... (2) a noise is presumed to be unreasonable if the noise exceeds a decibel level of 85 after the person making the noise receives notice from a magistrate or peace officer that the noise is a public nuisance.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
Garland's noise control ordinance in Chapter 22, Article V, allows sound caused by the operation of properly maintained residential air-conditioning, ventilation, and heating equipment to exceed the general sound level limits if the equipment is within manufacturer-specified sound levels or comparable to adjacent similar equipment, subject to approval by the Director of Health. The general stationary source limit in residential zones is ambient +15 dB(A) measured at the property boundary. Defective or poorly maintained HVAC producing excessive noise can still be cited as a nuisance.
Violations & Fines
Operating HVAC at sound levels substantially above manufacturer specs, or failing to maintain equipment, is a Class C misdemeanor noise violation with fines up to $500 per day.
Frequently Asked Questions
My neighbor's AC is loud. Can I complain?
What is the residential noise limit in Garland?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Garland
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Garland to another location·View the Texas noise from specific sources overview
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