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Killeen, TX Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)

Some Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

Max sound level
50 dBA at property line
Governing sections
Killeen Code 16-78, 16-79
Vehicle stereo
Nuisance even inside a vehicle
Nighttime
Plainly-audible to residence banned
Penalty
$100–$2,000 misdemeanor fine

Summary

In Killeen, playing a radio, sound amplifier, or similar device loudly in a vehicle is a noise nuisance under Section 16-78, and Section 16-79 caps it at 50 dBA A-weighted at the property line.

The playing or permitting, or causing the playing, of any radio, television, phonograph, drum, jukebox, nickelodeon, musical instrument, sound amplifier or similar device which produces, reproduces, or amplifies sound, whether such device is operated at a fixed location or in a vehicle.

View official code

Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 38 Update 1).

Full Breakdown

Killeen treats a car radio, stereo, or sound amplifier as an unlawful noise nuisance under Section 16-78(a)(1), whether the device sits at a fixed location or in a vehicle. Section 16-79 sets the objective threshold: on the A-weighted scale it is illegal to exceed 3 decibels over ambient or a maximum of 50 dBA, whichever is higher, measured at the property line (5 decibels over ambient or 60 dBC on the C-weighted scale). During nighttime, 11 p.m. to 7 a.m., noise plainly audible to a nearby residence violates Section 16-77(b). Killeen police and noise-abatement officers enforce it, and a peace officer may arrest or cite on the spot.

Violations & Fines

A violation is a misdemeanor carrying a fine of $100 to $2,000; a second conviction within twelve months runs $250 to $2,000 (Section 16-82).

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a loud car stereo illegal in Killeen?
Yes. Section 16-78(a)(1) makes a radio or sound amplifier operated in a vehicle an unlawful noise nuisance, and Section 16-79 caps it at 50 dBA at the property line.
What is the exact decibel limit?
On the A-weighted scale, noise may not exceed 3 decibels over ambient or 50 dBA, whichever is higher; the C-weighted limit is 5 over ambient or 60 dBC (Section 16-79).
Does the limit apply to engine noise?
A moving vehicle's motor noise is exempt under Section 16-80(a)(2), but an out-of-repair or overloaded vehicle that grates, grinds, or rattles remains a nuisance under Section 16-78(a)(8).

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Killeen

Quiet HoursSome RestrictionsConstruction HoursLight RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Chickens & LivestockSome RestrictionsBarking DogsSome RestrictionsAmplified Music & Outdoor SoundSome RestrictionsLeaf Blower RulesFew RestrictionsDecibel LimitsSome RestrictionsParking Rules: Loading ZonesSome RestrictionsFence Regulations: Fence Permit RequirementsSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: BeekeepingSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Pet Store RulesSome RestrictionsAnimal Ordinances: Breed RestrictionsSignificant Restrictions

All Killeen rules

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