Dallas County, TX Noise Ordinances: Decibel Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- County Ordinance
- None
- TCEQ
- 30 TAC Ch. 101 nuisance complaints
- State Criminal Law
- TX Penal Code Section 42.01
- Industrial Zones
- Minimal in unincorporated area
Summary
No county industrial noise ordinance. TCEQ 30 TAC Chapter 101 addresses general air quality complaints but does not set specific industrial noise limits. TX Penal Code Section 42.01 applies to unreasonable noise. OSHA regulates workplace exposure only.
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 ... 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.
Full Breakdown
There is no county-level industrial noise ordinance for unincorporated Dallas County. Texas counties cannot enact noise regulations. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) addresses general nuisance complaints under 30 TAC Chapter 101, but this primarily covers air quality rather than setting specific industrial noise limits. Texas Penal Code Section 42.01 applies if industrial noise constitutes unreasonable noise near residences. OSHA regulates workplace noise exposure but does not address community noise impacts. Dallas County has very limited unincorporated area, mostly in the southeastern portion, which has minimal industrial activity.
Violations & Fines
TX Penal Code Section 42.01 if unreasonable: fine up to $500. TCEQ complaint process for nuisance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who regulates industrial noise in unincorporated Dallas County?
Can I complain about factory noise in unincorporated Dallas County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Dallas County
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Dallas County to another location·View the Texas noise ordinances overview
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