Wichita Falls, TX Noise Ordinances: Vehicle Noise (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- Code § 46-20
- Numeric limit
- None: nuisance standard
- Muffler
- Required; TX Transp. Code 547.604
- Vehicle amp advertising
- Prohibited (§ 46-20(14))
- Penalty
- Class C misdemeanor, up to $500
Summary
Wichita Falls sets no decibel or audible-at-a-distance threshold for vehicle noise. Section 46-20 instead bans specific acts: discharging exhaust without a muffler, operating an out-of-repair vehicle that grates or rattles, tire-squealing burnouts, and loudspeakers used on moving vehicles to advertise.
(5) The use of any automobile, motorcycle, streetcar, bus or vehicle so out of repair or so loaded which emits or creates loud and unnecessary grating, grinding or rattling noise. ... (9) The discharge into the open air of the exhaust from any motor vehicle, except through a muffler or other device, which will effectively and efficiently prevent loud and unusual noises and annoying smoke. ... (17) To recklessly operate a motor vehicle on a public road, alley, or highway in a manner that causes the vehicle to undergo sustained loss of traction (e.g., spinning and squealing tires).
Full Breakdown
The noise article carries no dBA meter reading and no 'plainly audible at X feet' test. Wichita Falls Police enforce Section 46-20's enumerated offenses instead. It is unlawful to discharge motor-vehicle exhaust except through a muffler that prevents loud noises, to operate a vehicle so out of repair that it grates, grinds, or rattles, or to recklessly spin and squeal tires for sustained loss of traction. Mechanical loudspeakers or amplifiers on moving vehicles advertising a sale are barred; ice-cream and snow-cone jingles are exempt from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. State law (Transportation Code § 547.604) backs the muffler requirement. A violation is a Class C misdemeanor fined up to $500.
Violations & Fines
Enforced by Wichita Falls Police as a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by a fine up to $500 per offense under the Chapter 1 general penalty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Wichita Falls have a decibel limit for car stereos?
Are loud exhausts and burnouts illegal in Wichita Falls?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Wichita Falls
Texas rules heatmap·Compare Wichita Falls to another location·View the Texas noise ordinances overview
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