Katy, TX Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- Code of Ordinances sec. 8.04.002(2)
- Night trigger
- Plainly audible at 50 feet
- Quiet hours
- 11:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.
- Enforcement
- Katy Police, municipal court
- Classification
- Class C misdemeanor
Summary
Katy makes it illegal to run a car stereo, radio, or amplifier so loudly it disturbs neighbors. Between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., sound plainly audible 50 feet from the vehicle is prima facie evidence of a violation.
Radios, phonographs and similar devices. The using, operating or permitting to be played, used or operated any radio receiving set, musical instrument, phonograph, or other machine or device for the producing or reproducing of sound in such manner as to disturb the peace, quiet and comfort of the neighboring inhabitants ... The operation of any such set, instrument, phonograph, machine, or device between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. in such a manner as to be plainly audible at a distance of fifty feet (50') from the building, structure or vehicle in which it is located shall be prima facie evidence of a violation of this section.
Full Breakdown
Under section 8.04.002(2) of Katy's Code of Ordinances, playing any radio, musical instrument, phonograph, or sound-reproducing device in a room, vehicle, or chamber louder than needed for the listeners inside, or so as to disturb neighboring inhabitants, is prohibited. Between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., operating such a device so it is plainly audible 50 feet from the vehicle is prima facie evidence of a violation. The same article separately bars unreasonable vehicle horn use, engine or motor-vehicle exhaust not passed through an effective muffler, and grating or rattling noise from a defective or overloaded vehicle. Katy Police enforce it and cases are filed in municipal court.
Violations & Fines
Enforced by the Katy Police Department; a violation is a Class C misdemeanor prosecuted in municipal court under the city's general penalty provision, section 1.01.009 of the Code of Ordinances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can police ticket me for a loud car stereo in Katy?
Does the noise rule only apply at night?
Is a loud exhaust illegal in Katy?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Katy
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Katy 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 If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
Vehicle Noise in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Fort Bend County handle vehicle noise.