San Antonio, TX Noise Ordinances: Leaf Blower Rules (2026)

Texas counties, including Bexar County, do not have general zoning authority under state law and cannot pass citywide-style nuisance ordinances regulating gas or electric leaf blower use in unincorporated areas. Texas Local Government Code Chapter 240 limits county regulatory power, and no Bexar County Commissioners Court order currently restricts leaf blower operating hours, decibel output, or equipment type. In unincorporated neighborhoods near San Antonio (Helotes area, far west side, northeast sector near JBSA-Fort Sam Houston), operators must only avoid creating an unreasonable noise under Texas Penal Code Section 42.01(a)(5), which treats making unreasonable noise in a public place or near a private residence as disorderly conduct. Bexar County Sheriff deputies respond to complaints case-by-case, typically at night or very early morning. Within incorporated city limits the picture is different: the City of San Antonio Chapter 21 noise code restricts construction-type noise including power equipment between 10 PM and 7 AM, and Castle Hills, Leon Valley, Live Oak, Universal City, and Converse each have city-specific provisions. HOA covenants in master-planned communities like Stone Oak, Timberwood Park, or The Dominion frequently impose stricter windows (often 8 AM to 7 PM on weekdays, later start on weekends) and these are enforceable by the HOA independently of county rules.