Fort Worth, TX Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]

When are quiet hours in Fort Worth, TX?

Residential: 10PM-7AM; Non-residential: 10PM-7AM (extended to 2AM Fri-Sat in specific downtown areas).

Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.

Who To Call (Non-Emergency)

817-392-4222How to file a complaint →

Fort Worth, TX Noise Rules

Verified 2026

What is the noise ordinance in Fort Worth, TX?

Fort Worth, TX noise ordinances, outlined in City Code Section 23-8, regulate sound based on decibel limits and a "reasonable person" standard. They establish quiet hours, restrict animal noise, amplified sound in public spaces without permits, and set construction hours. Decibel limits vary by zone and time. Violations can result in fines up to $500.

Decibel Limit Comparison

Decibel limits for residential and commercial zones in Fort Worth, TX
Zone TypeDayNight
Residential70 dBA (7AM-10PM)60 dBA (10PM-7AM)
Commercial80 dBA (7AM-10PM)70 dBA (10PM-7AM)

Note: Decibel limits are measured from the complainant's property line for a minimum of 30 seconds. Residential limits apply when adjacent to other districts (excluding industrial). Special provisions exist for 'H' Central Business District, 'PI' Panther Island, and West 7th Village, allowing 80 dBA until 2 AM on Fridays and Saturdays, dropping to 70 dBA thereafter until 7 AM.

Specific Restrictions

  • Construction:

    Construction work is allowed on Sundays but cannot go on after 8 p.m. Operation of certain heavy equipment (e.g., pile drivers) is prohibited between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.

  • Amplified Sound:

    Use of bullhorns, loudspeakers, or other amplification is prohibited in the public right-of-way and on City property, with exceptions for public safety officials or those with an outdoor event permit. Playing musical instruments or operating sound-amplifying devices at a volume that disturbs residents is prohibited, particularly between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m.

  • Animals:

    It is unlawful to keep any animal that creates frequent, repetitive, or continuous noise (e.g., barking, crowing) for 10 minutes or longer, disturbing persons of ordinary sensibilities.

  • Vehicles:

    Continued or frequent sounding of horns (except as a warning), revving engines, or operating vehicles out of repair or with excessively loud music/bass are prohibited if they create loud or unnecessary noise/vibrations.

Frequently Asked Questions about Fort Worth, TX Noise Rules

What are the designated quiet hours in Fort Worth, TX?

Residential: 10PM-7AM; Non-residential: 10PM-7AM (extended to 2AM Fri-Sat in specific downtown areas).. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.

How loud can I play music in Fort Worth, TX?

Residential areas typically have a limit of 70 dBA (7AM-10PM) during the day and 60 dBA (10PM-7AM) 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 Fort Worth, TX?

For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Fort Worth, TX police non-emergency line at 817-392-4222. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 817-392-1234 (City Call Center).

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