Abilene, TX Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Abilene, TX?
| Regulation | Details for Abilene, TX |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-10AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 325-673-8331 |
10PM-10AM for residential amplified sound
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Abilene, TX Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Abilene, TX?
Abilene, TX noise ordinances, primarily found in Chapter 20 - OFFENSES, prohibit "unreasonable loud, disturbing, unnecessary noise" that causes distress or interferes with the comfort of private homes. While specific decibel limits are limited, sound equipment audible beyond residential property lines is restricted to 75 dBA and prohibited between 10 PM and 10 AM. Violations can result in municipal citations and abatement costs.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | Not specified, but amplified sound restricted to 75 dBA. | Not specified, but amplified sound restricted to 75 dBA. |
| Commercial | Not specified | Not specified |
Note: Abilene's ordinance primarily uses a subjective 'unreasonable loud, disturbing, unnecessary noise' standard. Texas state law presumes noise exceeding 85 dBA to be unreasonable after notice. For residential amplified sound, a 75 dBA limit applies.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Not explicitly defined in the general noise ordinance. Abilene's Land Development Code mentions noise regulations for new construction near Abilene Regional Airport related to noise contours. General Texas law indicates construction noise is presumed unreasonable above 85 dBA after notice.
- Amplified Sound:
Use of sound equipment producing sound audible beyond a residential property line is prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. and must not exceed 75 decibels at the property line.
- Animals:
Complaints regarding barking dogs are handled by Abilene Animal Services. General noise ordinance applies to 'unreasonable loud, disturbing, unnecessary noise' which could include animals.
- Vehicles:
No person shall ring a bell exceeding four inches in diameter on any vehicle from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. for attracting public attention.
Frequently Asked Questions about Abilene, TX Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Abilene, TX?
10PM-10AM for residential amplified sound. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Abilene, TX?
Residential areas typically have a limit of Not specified, but amplified sound restricted to 75 dBA. during the day and Not specified, but amplified sound restricted to 75 dBA. at night. Excessive vibration or bass that is plainly audible at the property line may also be a violation.
Who do I contact to report a noise violation in Abilene, TX?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Abilene, TX police non-emergency line at 325-673-8331. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 325-676-6241.