Denton, TX Noise Ordinances: Decibel Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Daytime limit
- 65 dBA at 50 feet
- Nighttime limit
- 65 dBA at 50 feet
- Multi-family daytime cap
- 50 dBA in adjacent unit
- Daytime hours
- 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
- Measurement
- A-weighted meter, 2-minute reading
Summary
Denton caps home stereo, TV, and instrument noise at 65 dBA measured 50 feet away during both daytime and nighttime hours, dropping to 50 dBA for adjacent units in multi-family buildings, under Sec. 17-20 of the Property Maintenance Code.
The playing of any phonograph, television, radio, or any musical instrument in such manner or with such volume, so as to be clearly audible to a person in a residence the person playing the instrument does not have the right to occupy; and 1.During the daytime, measure more than sixty-five (65) dba on the A-weighting scale on an approved sound-level meter at more than fifty (50) feet from the source; or ... 3.During the daytime, in a multi-family dwelling, measure more than fifty (50) dba on the A-weighting scale on an approved sound-level meter in any adjacent unit; or
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 37 Update 1 | Development Code: Supplement 27).
Full Breakdown
Under Sec. 17-20(c)(3)a. of the Denton Code, playing a phonograph, TV, radio, or musical instrument audible inside a neighboring home you don't have the right to occupy is a violation if it measures more than 65 dBA on the A-weighting scale at more than 50 feet from the source, whether during daytime (7:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m.) or nighttime (10:00 p.m.-7:00 a.m.). In multi-family buildings the daytime cap drops to 50 dBA in any adjacent unit, and at night any audibility in a neighboring unit violates the code outright. Readings run at least two minutes on an approved sound-level meter, with the highest reading in that window controlling.
Violations & Fines
Class C misdemeanor, fine up to $500 per Sec. 17-4; chronic offenders (2+ prior chapter 17 convictions within 24 months) face a fine of $300 to $500, plus possible city civil-injunction action.
Frequently Asked Questions
What decibel level is illegal in Denton?
Is the limit stricter in apartments?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Denton
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Denton to another location·View the Texas noise ordinances overview
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Decibel Limits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Denton County handle decibel limits.