Odessa, TX Noise Ordinances: Decibel Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- Code of Ordinances § 8-2-2(7)-(8)
- Core rule
- Muffle engine exhaust and compressed-air noise
- Applies
- Citywide, not just residential zones
- Max fine
- $500 per day, per § 1-1-9
- Enforced by
- Code enforcement and police department
Summary
Odessa requires mufflers on stationary engines and compressed-air machinery, banning industrial and commercial equipment noise that isn't muffled and effectively reduced anywhere in the city.
The discharge into the open air of the exhaust of any steam engine, stationary internal combustion engine, motor vehicle or boat engine, except through a muffler or other device which will effectively prevent loud or explosive noises therefrom. ... The use of any mechanical device operated by compressed air, unless the noise to be created is effectively muffled and reduced.
Full Breakdown
Odessa's noise ordinance, Code of Ordinances § 8-2-2, treats unmuffled industrial equipment as a citywide nuisance, not just a residential-zone problem. Running a stationary internal combustion engine, steam engine, or boat/vehicle engine without a muffler that effectively prevents loud or explosive exhaust noise is a violation, and the same section separately bars operating any compressed-air-powered mechanical device unless its noise is effectively muffled and reduced: covering pneumatic tools and machinery common at industrial and commercial sites. Code enforcement and police handle complaints, and because Article 8-2 isn't on the code's enhanced fire/zoning/health penalty list, violations fall under the standard citywide fine cap.
Violations & Fines
Running an unmuffled stationary engine or a compressed-air tool that isn't effectively muffled and reduced; each day it continues is a separate offense, fined up to $500.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Odessa set a decibel limit for industrial noise?
Can a job site run loud compressor equipment at night?
What's the penalty for violating Odessa's equipment-noise rule?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Odessa
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Odessa to another location·View the Texas noise ordinances overview
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