Skip to main content
CityRuleLookup
Key FactsOrdinance TextFull BreakdownViolationsFAQSourcesMore in Wichita Falls

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

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

Amplified music rules in Wichita Falls, 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

Governing section
§ 46-20(3)
Decibel limit
None: nuisance standard
Test
Disturbs peace, quiet, or repose
Exempt
Permitted stadium events, city celebrations
Max fine
$500 per violation (§ 1-14)

Summary

Wichita Falls bans playing music or amplified sound outdoors loud enough to disturb neighbors' peace, quiet, or repose. There's no decibel meter: enforcement turns on whether the sound disturbs people, and scheduled stadium events and permitted city celebrations are exempt.

The playing of any radio, television set, phonograph, or musical instrument in such a manner or with such volume as to disturb the peace, quiet, comfort, or repose of persons in any dwelling, apartment, hotel or other type of residence.

View official code

Full Breakdown

City Code § 46-20(3) makes it unlawful to play a radio, phonograph, or musical instrument "in such a manner or with such volume as to disturb the peace, quiet, comfort, or repose" of nearby residents: the same complaint-based standard that governs any outdoor or live amplified performance. Section 46-19 backs this with a broader ban on any unreasonably loud, disturbing noise offensive to the city's inhabitants. Section 46-21(5) carves out an exemption for sound at scheduled stadium events, permitted parades, and city-sponsored or cosponsored outdoor celebrations, so a concert with a city permit isn't automatically a violation.

Violations & Fines

Officers cite under the general penalty in § 1-14: a fine of up to $500 per violation, since the noise article sets no separate penalty amount.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a decibel limit for outdoor music in Wichita Falls?
No. The code bans playing music or amplified sound "with such volume as to disturb the peace, quiet, comfort, or repose" of nearby residents: it's a complaint-based standard, not a measured decibel threshold.
Are outdoor concerts or festivals exempt from this rule?
Yes. Section 46-21(5) exempts scheduled stadium events, permitted parades, and city-sponsored or cosponsored outdoor celebrations from the noise article.
What's the penalty for violating the outdoor music noise rule?
A citation under the city's general penalty section, § 1-14, punishable by a fine of up to $500 per violation.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Wichita Falls

Quiet HoursLight RestrictionsConstruction HoursLight RestrictionsVehicle NoiseSome RestrictionsDecibel LimitsSome RestrictionsBarking DogsLight RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesLight RestrictionsParking Rules: Abandoned VehiclesSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Retaining WallsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Pet Store RulesSignificant RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Pet LimitsSignificant RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Mandatory Spay/NeuterSignificant Restrictions

All Wichita Falls rules

Texas rules heatmap·Compare Wichita Falls to another location·View the Texas noise ordinances overview

Get notified when Amplified Music & Outdoor Sound in Wichita Falls, TX changes

We'll email you the moment we detect a change in the code. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

We'll never sell or share your email. One-click unsubscribe in every email.

See something wrong?

Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.