Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup
Key FactsOrdinance TextFull BreakdownViolationsFAQSourcesMore in Houston

Houston, TX Noise from Specific Sources: Low-Frequency Bass Limits (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified August 2026

Key Facts

Governing section
Code of Ordinances § 30-5(b)
Trigger
Vibration or resonance felt off-property
dB(A) meter reading
Irrelevant if vibration is felt
Maximum fine
$2,000 per violation
Enforcing agency
Houston Police / ARA Department

Summary

Houston bans sound that makes neighbors feel vibrations or resonance, even when it stays under the chapter's dB(A) limits: the rule that reaches thumping bass and subwoofers.

Regardless of the measurable dB(A) level established in this chapter and measured in a manner provided in subsection (a) of this section, the creation of any sound causing persons occupying or using any property other than the property upon which the sound is being generated to be aware of vibrations or resonance caused by the sound shall be prima facie evidence of a sound that unreasonably disturbs, injures, or endangers the comfort, repose, health, peace, or safety of others in violation of this chapter.

View official code

Full Breakdown

Houston Code of Ordinances § 30-5(b) creates a separate violation for low-frequency bass: if a sound causes anyone on another property to become aware of vibrations or resonance, that alone is prima facie evidence of an unlawful sound nuisance, regardless of the measured dB(A) reading. This closes the gap left by standard A-weighted sound meters, which underrate deep bass. It applies on top of the numeric limits in § 30-5(a) (65 dB(A) daytime / 58 dB(A) nighttime on residential property).

Violations & Fines

A citation carries a fine up to $2,000 per violation under § 30-17, with each hour of continuing violation counted as a separate offense; enforced by Houston police and the Administration and Regulatory Affairs Department.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my subwoofer have to register above 65 dB(A) to be illegal?
No. Under § 30-5(b), if a neighbor can feel the bass as vibration or resonance on their property, that alone is prima facie evidence of a violation regardless of the decibel reading.
Is this the same rule as Houston's general noise limit?
No. It is a separate provision in § 30-5(b) that exists specifically because standard A-weighted decibel meters can under-measure low-frequency bass.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Houston

Parking Rules: Overnight ParkingSome RestrictionsCar Alarm LimitsLight RestrictionsBar & Nightclub NoiseSignificant RestrictionsHVAC & Mechanical NoiseSome RestrictionsNoise Ordinances: Aircraft NoiseFew RestrictionsParking Rules: Preferential Parking DistrictsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Wildlife FeedingHeavy RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: MicrochippingSome RestrictionsLandscaping Rules: CompostingFew Restrictions

All Houston rules

Texas rules heatmap·Compare Houston to another location·View the Texas noise from specific sources overview

Get notified when Low-Frequency Bass Limits in Houston, TX changes

We'll email you the moment we detect a change in the code. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

We'll never sell or share your email. One-click unsubscribe in every email.

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.