Pasadena, TX Noise Ordinances: Decibel Limits (2026)
Key Facts
- Peak Limit
- 75 dB(A) at property boundary
- Nighttime Residential
- 5 dB above ambient (10 PM–7 AM)
- Nighttime Nonresidential
- 10 dB above ambient (10 PM–7 AM)
- Penalty
- Up to $500/day
Summary
Pasadena's noise ordinance (Sec. 20-1) sets a peak sound limit of 75 dB(A) at any receiving property boundary at any time. The ordinance also prohibits sound exceeding 10 dB above ambient on nonresidential property between 10 PM and 7 AM. Industrial facilities near the Houston Ship Channel are subject to these standards.
Sec. 42.01. DISORDERLY CONDUCT. (a) 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 ... (c) For purposes of this section: ... (2) 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
Pasadena Code Sec. 20-1(c)(2) establishes quantitative noise limits applicable to industrial operations: a peak of 75 dB(A) at any receiving property at any time, 10 dB above ambient at nonresidential property between 10 PM and 7 AM, and 5 dB above ambient at residential property between 10 PM and 7 AM. Octave band analysis may be required for complex industrial noise. As a major refinery and petrochemical city, Pasadena has significant industrial operations along the Houston Ship Channel. Violations are fines up to $500 per day. The city may order industrial operators to furnish noise data and operational information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are refineries in Pasadena subject to noise rules?
How is industrial noise measured?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Pasadena
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Pasadena to another location·View the Texas noise ordinances overview
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Decibel Limits in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Harris County handle decibel limits.