Dallas, TX Noise Ordinances: Quiet Hours (2026)
Quiet hours in Dallas, TX, also called the noise ordinance, nighttime noise rules, or residential quiet time, define the hours during which excessive noise is prohibited.
Key Facts
- Code Section
- Chapter 30
- Garbage Collection
- Prohibited 10 PM – 7 AM near residential
- Animal Noise
- 15 min continuous = violation
- Enforcement
- DPD & Code Compliance
Summary
Dallas Chapter 30 of the Code of Ordinances prohibits loud and disturbing noises. Garbage collection is prohibited between 10 PM and 7 AM within 300 feet of residential use. The Deep Ellum and Uptown entertainment districts have special noise considerations.
Sec. 42.01. DISORDERLY CONDUCT. (a) A person commits an offense if he intentionally or knowingly:(1) uses abusive, indecent, profane, or vulgar language in a public place, and the language by its very utterance tends to incite an immediate breach of the peace;(2) makes an offensive gesture or display in a public place, and the gesture or display tends to incite an immediate breach of the peace;(3) creates, by chemical means, a noxious and unreasonable odor in a public place;(4) abuses or threatens a person in a public place in an obviously offensive manner;(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;(6) fights with another in a publ...
Full Breakdown
Dallas Code of Ordinances Chapter 30 regulates noise. Section 30-1 makes it unlawful to make any unreasonably loud, disturbing, and unnecessary noise. Section 30-2 lists presumed offensive noises including: playing radio, TV, or musical instruments with volume disturbing persons in nearby dwellings; continuous barking or animal noise for more than 15 minutes; collection of garbage between 10 PM and 7 AM on or within 300 feet of any residential use. The Deep Ellum entertainment district and Uptown nightlife area have elevated ambient noise from live venues. Dallas Police Department and Code Compliance handle noise complaints. Texas Penal Code §42.01 (disorderly conduct) provides additional enforcement.
Violations & Fines
Noise violations may result in Class C misdemeanor charges under Texas Penal Code §42.01, with fines up to $500. City code violations may result in separate municipal fines. Repeat offenders face escalating penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the quiet hours in Dallas?
What happens if I violate the noise ordinance in Dallas?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Dallas
How Dallas compares: Cities with the Strictest Noise Ordinances·Texas rules heatmap·Compare Dallas to another location·View the Texas noise ordinances overview
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Quiet Hours in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Dallas County handle quiet hours.