Tarrant County, TX Noise Ordinances: Quiet Hours (2026)
Quiet hours in Tarrant County, TX, also called the noise ordinance, nighttime noise rules, or residential quiet time, define the hours during which excessive noise is prohibited.
Key Facts
- County Ordinance
- None: no authority
- State Law
- TX Penal Code §42.01
- Enforcement
- Sheriff (817-884-1213)
- Fine
- Up to $500 (Class C)
Summary
Tarrant County has no county noise ordinance for unincorporated areas. Texas counties lack zoning authority and cannot enact noise regulations. Noise complaints are handled under Texas Penal Code §42.01 (Disorderly Conduct) by the Tarrant County Sheriff's Office.
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
Unincorporated Tarrant County has no local noise ordinance, decibel limits, or designated quiet hours. Texas law does not grant counties the authority to enact zoning or noise regulations. The only enforcement mechanism is Texas Penal Code §42.01, which makes it a Class C misdemeanor to make unreasonable noise in a public place. The Tarrant County Sheriff's Office responds to noise complaints at 817-884-1213. Many subdivisions in unincorporated areas have HOA deed restrictions that may include noise provisions enforceable through civil action.
Violations & Fines
Texas Penal Code §42.01 Disorderly Conduct: Class C misdemeanor, fine up to $500. HOA violations enforced through civil courts by the property owners' association.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the quiet hours in Tarrant County?
What happens if I violate the noise ordinance in Tarrant County?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Tarrant County
How Tarrant County compares: Cities with the Strictest Noise Ordinances·Texas rules heatmap·Compare Tarrant County to another location·View the Texas noise ordinances overview
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