Denton, TX Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Vehicle limit
- Clearly audible past 35 feet
- Citation
- Denton Code Sec. 17-20(c)(3)d
- Enforced by
- Denton Code Enforcement Officers
- Max fine
- $500 per violation
- Stationary-source cap
- 65 dBA at 50 feet
Summary
Denton makes it illegal to play a car radio, stereo, or amplifier loud enough to be clearly audible more than 35 feet from the vehicle. Denton Code Enforcement handles it under the city noise ordinance, and violators face a fine up to $500.
The following acts, among others, are declared to be noise nuisances in violation of this chapter... d. The use of any radio, stereo, amplifier, sound amplifying equipment, or other musical device installed or contained in a motor vehicle at a volume such that it is clearly audible to any person from more than thirty-five (35) feet from the vehicle.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 37 Update 1 | Development Code: Supplement 27).
Full Breakdown
Denton Code of Ordinances Sec. 17-20(c)(3)d declares it a noise nuisance to use any radio, stereo, amplifier, sound amplifying equipment, or other musical device installed in a motor vehicle at a volume clearly audible to any person from more than 35 feet from the vehicle. The limit is audibility-based, not decibel-based, and applies at any hour. Denton's separate stationary-source cap is 65 dBA measured on an approved sound-level meter at more than 50 feet. Denton Code Enforcement Officers enforce Chapter 17; a conviction carries a fine up to $500, with a $300-$500 range for chronic offenders.
Violations & Fines
Playing a vehicle sound system clearly audible past 35 feet is a noise nuisance under Chapter 17. On conviction the fine runs up to $500; chronic offenders face $300 to $500.
Frequently Asked Questions
How far can my car stereo be heard before it's illegal in Denton?
What's the penalty for a loud car stereo in Denton?
Does Denton use a decibel limit for vehicle stereos?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Denton
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Denton to another location·View the Texas noise ordinances overview
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Vehicle Noise in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Denton County handle vehicle noise.