Austin, TX Short-Term Rentals: Noise Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Noise Limits
- STR outdoor amplified sound banned
- Noise Limits
- STR noise cap 70 dB(A) day and night
- 24/7 Operator
- 24/7 operator phone must be posted
- Penalties
- Two confirmed violations can suspend license
- Height Limit
- Enforcement heightened during SXSW/ACL/F1
Summary
Austin short-term rentals are subject to Chapter 9-2 noise limits plus stricter STR-specific conditions under City Code Chapter 25-2. STR operators must post 24-hour contact info, respond to noise complaints within one hour, and face license revocation after repeat violations.
City ordinance governs these matters in section 4-23-34 of the City Code . An STR licensee or guest may not: Use or allow the use of sound equipment that produces sound in excess of 75 decibels at the property line between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. Use or allow use of sound equipment that produces sound audible beyond the property line between 10 p.m. and 10 a.m. Make or allow another to make noise or play a musical instrument audible to an adjacent business or residence between 10:30 p.m. and 7 a.m. Advertise or promote, or allow another to advertise or promote, the dwelling as a short-term rental if it is not licensed as such. [...] Information Packet Under section 4-23-41(E) of the City Code , a licensee/operator must provide renters a copy of an information packet in a conspicuous common area of the STR that includes: [...] Restrictions on noise applicable under section 25-2-794 of the City Code [...]
Full Breakdown
Austin Code Chapter 25-2 Subchapter E (STR regulations) imposes heightened noise duties beyond general Chapter 9-2 limits. Licensed STRs must prohibit outdoor amplified sound entirely, cap occupancy-related noise at 70 dB(A) at the property line 24/7 (5 dB below general residential), and post a sign with a 24/7 operator phone that must be answered live. After a confirmed APD or Code noise complaint, the operator must ensure compliance within one hour. Two confirmed noise violations in a 12-month period can suspend the STR license; three can revoke it. STR Type 2 (non-owner-occupied) is effectively phased out in residential zones under the 2016 ordinance (upheld and revised after the Zaatari litigation). For remaining STR Type 1 (owner-occupied) and Type 2 commercial, noise rules are strictly enforced by Code Department, which runs weekend sweeps during SXSW, ACL, F1 race weekend, and UT football home games. Guests violating noise rules may also be cited directly under Chapter 9-2.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my guests have a party?
What happens after a noise complaint?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Austin
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