Austin, TX Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)
Amplified music rules in Austin, TX, also called sound permit, PA system, or live music ordinances, set decibel limits, time-of-day restrictions, and when permits are required.
Key Facts
- Permit Required
- OMV permit required for outdoor amplified sound
- Residential Cutoff
- Residential cutoff 10:00 PM all nights
- Downtown Cutoff
- Downtown cutoff midnight Thu-Sat, 10:30 PM Sun-Wed
- Fees
- Standard cap 85 dB(A) at 20 feet
- Special Event
- Special event permits for SXSW/ACL extend hours
Summary
As the self-proclaimed Live Music Capital of the World, Austin has detailed amplified sound rules in City Code Chapter 9-2. Outdoor amplified music requires a permit, with decibel caps and cutoff times that are stricter in residential areas and around the Red River Cultural District and downtown entertainment zones.
Sec. 42.01. 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. (d) An offense under this section is a Class C misdemeanor.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
Austin City Code Chapter 9-2 requires an Outdoor Music Venue (OMV) permit or a special event permit for amplified sound audible beyond the property line in commercial districts, and prohibits most amplified sound in residential districts. The Austin Center for Events (ACE) and the Music and Entertainment Division administer OMV permits. Standard cutoff is 10:30 PM Sunday through Wednesday and midnight Thursday through Saturday for permitted downtown venues; residential zones must cease amplified sound at 10:00 PM. Maximum permitted sound levels are typically 85 dB(A) measured 20 feet from the source or at the property line, with downtown entertainment districts allowed higher levels (up to 95 dB(A) in certain zones).
During SXSW and Austin City Limits Festival, special event permits extend hours and raise limits, but venues must still comply with noise management plans filed with ACE. Violations of Chapter 9-2 are Class C misdemeanors with fines up to $500, and repeated violations can trigger permit revocation. For single-family homes, amplified music (parties, bands) audible beyond property lines after 10:00 PM is a violation regardless of decibel level.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for a backyard band?
Why can Red River venues play so late?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Austin
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Austin to another location·View the Texas noise ordinances overview
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Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Travis County handle amplified music & outdoor sound.