Denton County, TX Noise Ordinances: Quiet Hours (2026)
Quiet hours in Denton 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 (940) 349-1600
- Fine
- Up to $500 (Class C)
- HOAs
- May have private quiet hours
Summary
Denton County has no county noise ordinance or designated quiet hours for unincorporated areas. Texas counties lack general zoning and noise-regulation authority under state law. Noise complaints are handled solely under Texas Penal Code 42.01 (Disorderly Conduct) by the Denton County Sheriff.
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. (d) An offense under this section is a Class C misdemeanor unless committed under Subsection (a)(7) or (a)(8), in which event it is a Class B misdemeanor.
Full Breakdown
Unincorporated Denton County does not have a local noise ordinance, decibel limits, or designated quiet hours. Under Texas Local Government Code Chapter 240, county nuisance authority is limited to specific health and environmental hazards and does not extend to general noise regulation. The only enforcement mechanism available is Texas Penal Code 42.01, which makes it a Class C misdemeanor to make unreasonable noise in a public place. The Denton County Sheriff responds to noise complaints at (940) 349-1600. Many master-planned subdivisions in unincorporated Denton County, particularly near Argyle, Bartonville, Cross Roads, and Northlake, have HOA deed restrictions that include enforceable noise provisions through civil action. Residents in these communities should consult their HOA covenants for specific quiet-hour rules.
Violations & Fines
Texas Penal Code 42.01 Disorderly Conduct: Class C misdemeanor, fine up to $500. HOA deed restriction violations enforced through civil courts by the property owners association.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Denton County have quiet hours?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Denton County
How Denton County compares: Cities with the Strictest Noise Ordinances·Texas rules heatmap·Compare Denton County to another location·View the Texas noise ordinances overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.