Richardson, TX Short-Term Rentals: Noise Rules (2026)

Richardson's short-term rental ordinance folds noise directly into the STR licensing scheme rather than leaving it as a standalone nuisance charge. Section 6-520(e) makes it unlawful for an owner or guest of a registered STR to allow, permit, or make any noise that violates the city's noise ordinance in chapter 13, article III, division 2. That division defines the underlying offense: section 13-72 bars any unreasonably loud, disturbing and unnecessary noise that is offensive to the ordinary sensibilities of city residents, makes enjoyment of life or property uncomfortable, or interferes with public peace and comfort, and section 13-74 separately bars noise detrimental to life or health.

00 per offense, and every day the violation continues is a separate offense; the city can also pursue injunctive relief under Local Government Code chapters 211 and 54. Noise citations feed the registration system: under section 6-517(a)(1), two or more convictions for article violations, including noise, on the same STR premises within a 12-month period constitutes a habitual nuisance and grounds for the director to revoke the registration certificate outright. A single severe incident that substantially interferes with neighbors' use and enjoyment of property, under 6-517(a)(2), can trigger revocation on its own.

Once revoked, the premises cannot receive a new STR registration for one year regardless of who owns or operates it, under 6-517(c). An owner has ten business days after notice to request a hearing before the director under section 6-518, and can appeal that decision to the city manager within ten business days under section 6-519, with both hearings held within 20 business days of the filing.