Bexar County, TX Noise Ordinances: Amplified Music & Events (2026)

Amplified music complaints in unincorporated Bexar County are handled under Texas Penal Code Section 42.01(c), which establishes a rebuttable presumption that a sound is unreasonable if it exceeds levels set by 42.01(e), including sound from a vehicle audible more than 30 feet away. For residential disturbances, deputies evaluate time of day, duration, bass/sub-bass character, and distance to the complainant. Bexar County does not issue amplified sound permits for private events because the county lacks authority to do so, but the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission may consider noise when reviewing TABC permits for venues. Within the City of San Antonio, Chapter 21 of the City Code requires an amplified sound permit for outdoor events exceeding specified decibel thresholds, with stricter limits after 10 PM (11 PM Fri/Sat) and the St. Marys Strip entertainment district having its own tailored rules. Residents near Randolph AFB and JBSA-Lackland are reminded that military aircraft noise is federally preempted and is NOT amplified music for enforcement purposes. Outdoor weddings, quinceaneras, and backyard DJ setups in unincorporated Bexar County are not licensed by the county; hosts are responsible for keeping music at levels that do not draw a 42.01 complaint. Bars and cantinas in unincorporated areas also fall under 42.01 rather than a county noise ordinance.