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

Section 14.03.003(2) of the Code of Ordinances makes it unlawful to operate or cause to be operated a loudspeaker, amplifier or musical instrument that exceeds the maximum decibel levels set in section 14.03.001(a): 85 dBA during the day, 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and 70 dBA at night, 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m., measured the way section 14.03.001(b) prescribes, with an ANSI-calibrated sound level meter read from the real property line of the person complaining. The section defines "to operate or cause to be operated" broadly: it covers both causing the device to function or keeping it running, and supervising or managing other people who cause it to function, so a business owner or event host can be cited even if an employee or DJ is the one at the controls.

Section 14.03.002 layers a second nuisance test on top of the numeric limit, covering any unreasonably loud, disturbing noise that causes material distress to persons of ordinary sensibilities or interferes with the comfortable enjoyment of a home. A person who wants to run amplified sound above the limit, for an outdoor event for example, can apply for a special exception under section 14.03.004, but the city manager and chief of police must find the noise will not endanger public health and that compliance would impose an unreasonable hardship, and no exception is available to an applicant with more than two violations at the location in the prior six months.

Violating section 14.03.003(2) is a Class C misdemeanor under section 14.03.007, fined per the general penalty in section 1.01.009, with each day of continued amplified noise a separate offense.