Katy, TX Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound (2026)
Amplified music rules in Katy, 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
- Code Section
- Article 8.04
- Night Audibility Limit
- 50 feet (11 p.m.-7 a.m.)
- Street Loudspeakers
- Prohibited for advertising
- Daytime Standard
- No disturbance to neighbors
- Max Fine
- Up to $500 per offense
Summary
Katy bans loudspeakers cast onto public streets for advertising and prohibits radios, stereos, and amplifiers loud enough to disturb neighbors, with a strict 11 p.m.-7 a.m. audibility threshold.
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)(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.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: the cited page had not changed since it was quoted.
Full Breakdown
Article 8.04 prohibits using or operating any radio, musical instrument, phonograph, loudspeaker, sound amplifier, or device for producing or reproducing sound that is cast on public streets for the purpose of commercial advertising or attracting attention to a building. It also prohibits operating any such device in a manner that disturbs the peace, quiet, and comfort of neighbors, or at louder volume than necessary for convenient hearing of voluntary listeners in the room or vehicle. Operating any such device between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. in such a manner as to be plainly audible 50 feet from the building, structure, or vehicle is prima facie evidence of a violation.
Violations & Fines
Citation under Article 8.04 leads to Class C misdemeanor charges and fines up to $500 per violation; equipment may be ordered shut off by responding officers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a Katy business use loudspeakers facing the street?
Is my car stereo too loud under Katy's ordinance?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Katy
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Katy to another location·View the Texas noise ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Fort Bend County handle amplified music & outdoor sound.