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Brownsville, TX Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)

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

Amplified music rules in Brownsville, 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

Residential limit
63 dB(A) day, 50 dB(A) night
Night period
Midnight to 8:00 a.m.
Street amplifier permit
$5; expires after twelve months
Commercial limits
70/60 and 72 dB(A) by zone
Variance
City manager may grant with conditions

Summary

Brownsville caps sound at 63 dB(A) in residential zones from 8:00 a.m. to midnight and 50 dB(A) from midnight to 8:00 a.m. Amplification devices used on public streets require a city permit first.

It shall be unlawful for any person to use or operate or cause to be used or operated any device, as defined in section 46-76, on any public street within the city without first securing a permit.

Source: Brownsville Code of Ordinances & Unified Development CodeView official code

Full Breakdown

Section 46-78 sets zone-based limits: 63 and 50 dB(A) in D, DR and A districts, 70 and 60 dB(A) in 1C through 6C, and 72 dB(A) around the clock in 7C through 9C. Compliance is measured first within the property lines where the sound source sits; a reading above the table is then re-measured at the complaining property line, and only a second exceedance is a violation. Division 2 requires a permit before operating any amplifying device on a public street, at a $5 fee, expiring after twelve months.

Violations & Fines

Each offense is a separate and distinct violation under section 46-78(g), punished by fine under section 1-13. Tampering with the lock on a permitted device's volume control is separately unlawful.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the stricter noise limit start?
Midnight. Brownsville splits the day at 8:00 a.m. and 12:00 a.m. rather than using a 10 p.m. quiet hour, and the residential cap drops from 63 to 50 dB(A).
Do I need a permit for live music at my restaurant?
Division 2's permit covers amplifying devices used on a public street. On private property, compliance is measured against the section 46-78 decibel table for your zoning district.
Can I get an exception for a festival?
Yes. Sound made under a parade, fireworks display or temporary street closure permit is a defense, and the city manager can grant a sound level variance for temporary activities.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Brownsville

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All Brownsville rules

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