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3. Resolve Dispute
The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3Austin, TX
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"General residential noise levels may be around 70 dB during the day and 55 dB at night. Mechanical equipment noise is limited to 70 dB at the property line. Construction noise is permitted up to 85 dBA at 50 feet distance from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Saturday."
AI Executive Summary
Austin, TX noise ordinances, primarily Austin City Code Chapter 9-2, prohibit unreasonable noise generally between 10:30 PM and 7:00 AM. Amplified sound on residential property must not be audible beyond the property line from 10:00 PM to 10:00 AM, and is limited to 75 dB during the day. Construction hours are restricted to 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Saturday. Violations can result in fines up to $500, with construction violations carrying fines up to $5,000.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
General construction and demolition hours are 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Monday through Saturday. Noise typically limited to <= 85 dBA at 50 feet during these hours. No construction is permitted on New Year's Day, Easter, Memorial Day, July 14th (Independence Day), Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Outside permissible hours, work must meet baseline decibel limits, and concrete or special operations may require permits.
Amplified Sound
On residential property, amplified sound is permitted at <= 75 dB from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM; it must not be audible beyond the property line from 10:00 PM to 10:00 AM. Commercial and non-residential establishments require permits for outdoor amplified sound, with varying decibel limits and hours. No permit for amplified sound is issued within 100 feet of residential property (exceptions apply for public parks or street closures) or within 300 feet of a school or church. It is unlawful to operate loud-speaking devices on public sidewalks or streets before 7:00 AM or after 10:30 PM.
Animals
Nuisance barking dog complaints can be filed.
Vehicles
It is unlawful to create a sound or vibration more than 30 feet from a vehicle when related to vehicular sound amplification systems.
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