Dallas City Code Chapter 30 prohibits loud and disturbing noises offensive to ordinary sensibilities. Section 30-1 makes it an offense to create any loud and disturbing noise or vibration in the city. Industrial operations must also comply with zoning-based noise standards under Chapter 51A, which separates industrial uses from residential districts. The code does not set specific decibel limits but relies on a reasonable-person standard.
Dallas's industrial noise ordinance regulates sound generated by manufacturing facilities, warehouses, commercial HVAC systems, loading operations, and mechanical equipment. Noise from these sources must not exceed 70 dBA during daytime hours (7 AM–10 PM) or 60 dBA during nighttime hours (10 PM–7 AM) as measured at the nearest residential property line. Octave-band analysis may be required for tonal or impulsive noise. New industrial uses must submit noise impact assessments as part of conditional use permit applications. Existing facilities that exceed limits must implement mitigation measures such as sound walls, equipment enclosures, or operational schedule changes. Texas state environmental regulations supplement local noise control.
Industrial noise violations carry fines of $250–$2,500 per occurrence. Chronic violators face operating permit review and potential conditional use permit revocation. Abatement orders require compliance within 30 days.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Dallas County.
See how other cities in Dallas County handle industrial noise.
See how Dallas's industrial noise rules stack up against other locations.
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