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.
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.
Specific penalty amounts for this ordinance are not published in a publicly accessible fine schedule. Contact Austin code enforcement directly for current fines, enforcement procedures, and hearing options.
Austin, TX
Austin City Code Chapter 9-2 establishes citywide quiet hours from 10:30 PM to 7:00 AM, during which sound plainly audible across a property line in resident...
Austin, TX
Austin enforces Texas Transportation Code Chapter 683 and Austin City Code Chapter 12-5: a vehicle on public right-of-way is abandoned if inoperable for more...
Austin, TX
Austin Land Development Code Chapter 25-2 Subchapter F caps residential fences at 6 feet in side and rear yards and 4 feet in front yards without a permit. C...
Austin, TX
Austin City Code Chapter 3-4 requires dogs in public to be restrained on a leash no longer than 6 feet, with limited exceptions for designated off-leash area...
Austin, TX
Consumer fireworks are illegal to possess, use, or sell within Austin city limits. Violations can carry fines up to $2,000. Permits are issued only for profe...
Austin, TX
Austin imposes no general restriction on year-round lawn ornaments, statuary, or religious displays on private residential property. The sign code (LDC 25-10...
See how Austin's noise rules rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.