El Paso, TX Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)
Amplified music rules in El Paso, 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 Limits
- 55 dB(A) day / 50 dB(A) night
- Cutoff
- 10:00 PM for outdoor amplified sound
- Permit Needed
- Outdoor commercial amplification
- Special Events
- Require variance with time limits
- Penalty
- Up to $2,000 for repeat violations
Summary
El Paso Code Chapter 9.40 regulates amplified music with property-line decibel limits and special event permitting.
Sec. 42.01. DISORDERLY CONDUCT. (a) A person commits an offense if he intentionally or knowingly:(1) uses abusive, indecent, profane, or vulgar language in a public place, and the language by its very utterance tends to incite an immediate breach of the peace;(2) makes an offensive gesture or display in a public place, and the gesture or display tends to incite an immediate breach of the peace;(3) creates, by chemical means, a noxious and unreasonable odor in a public place;(4) abuses or threatens a person in a public place in an obviously offensive manner;(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 h
Full Breakdown
Residential amplified music must not exceed 55 dB(A) during the day or 50 dB(A) at night as measured at the neighboring property line. Commercial establishments including downtown venues and Mesa Street bars must obtain an amplified sound permit for outdoor speakers. Special events such as Chalk the Block, Sun City Music Festival, and Fiesta de las Flores require a city special event permit that includes noise variance language with specific cutoff times. Mariachi performances and outdoor patio music at restaurants on Cincinnati Street and Kern Place are permitted during business hours but must comply with the 10:00 PM cutoff unless a variance is granted.
Violations & Fines
Unpermitted amplified sound or exceeding decibel limits: Class C misdemeanor, $50 to $500 first offense and up to $2,000 for repeats. Businesses may have their amplified sound permit revoked.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit for outdoor music at my El Paso business?
Can I have a backyard party with a DJ in El Paso?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in El Paso
Texas rules heatmap·Compare El Paso to another location·View the Texas noise ordinances overview
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