The Resolution Path
1. Local Ordinance
2. Document Evidence
3. Resolve Dispute
The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3Garland, TX
Noise Ordinance Overview
You’ve located the ordinance. Now, compare your situation against the legal thresholds to build your case.
Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"Decibel limits are measured at the property boundary. L10 refers to the tenth percentile sound level, and L90 refers to the ninetieth percentile sound level (ambient). Violations occur if the L1 sound level exceeds 15 dBA above the ambient L90 level in residential zones, or if L10 or L90 limits are exceeded. Measurement periods are 10-30 minutes. Industrial zones maintain 85 dBA (L10) / 75 dBA (L90) for both day and night."
AI Executive Summary
Garland, TX noise ordinances, outlined in Article V, Chapter 22 of the City's Code, prohibit unreasonable noises detrimental to public peace. Specific decibel limits apply to residential (65 dBA day/60 dBA night), commercial (72 dBA day/67 dBA night), and industrial (85 dBA day/night) zones. Quiet hours generally run from 10 PM to 7 AM, with stricter rules for certain activities like power equipment and refuse collection. Violations incur penalties.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
Operating power equipment outdoors in residential zones is prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Power equipment 5 horsepower or less shall not exceed 74 dBA at 50 feet; over 5 horsepower shall not exceed 82 dBA at 50 feet. Sweeping, blowing, or vacuuming nonresidential property with mechanical devices is prohibited between 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. if within 500 feet of a residential area, unless a variance is obtained.
Amplified Sound
Loudspeakers or other sound sources in public entertainment venues exceeding 100 dBA (slow response) require a conspicuous warning sign at each public entrance stating 'WARNING: SOUND LEVELS WITHIN MAY CAUSE PERMANENT HEARING IMPAIRMENT.' Powered model mechanical devices (e.g., model aircraft) are prohibited in residential areas between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. or if they violate general sound levels.
Animals
The City's health code includes provisions for 'Animal nuisance prohibited.'
Vehicles
The City's Code includes a section (§ 22.71) on 'Motor vehicles, motorcycles' regarding noise control, but specific details were not provided in the search results.
Ready to Document?
Unlock evidence tools for Garland, TX