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The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3Midland, TX
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"Midland's ordinance states a minimum decibel level is not required for a violation, relying on an 'ordinary sensibilities' standard for nuisance noise. However, sound equipment audible beyond a residential property line in a residential area has a stated limit of 75 decibels."
AI Executive Summary
Midland, TX noise ordinances, under Chapter 6, Article 6-6-13, declare any "unreasonably loud, disturbing, raucous, or unnecessary noise" causing distress to persons of ordinary sensibilities as a prohibited nuisance. Amplified sound is restricted in public between 10:30 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., and in residential areas between 10:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. No minimum decibel level is required for a violation, though a 75 dB limit is noted for residential amplified sound.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
Drilling for oil and gas wells is allowed 24 hours without time constraints. General construction noise falls under the 'unreasonably loud' nuisance standard.
Amplified Sound
Prohibited in public between 10:30 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. In residential areas, sound equipment audible beyond the property line is prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. and should not exceed 75 decibels. Loudspeakers or amplifiers that annoy persons of ordinary sensibilities are prohibited, with exceptions for public events with advance permission.
Animals
Falls under the general 'unreasonably loud, disturbing, raucous, or unnecessary noise' nuisance standard if it interferes with the comfortable enjoyment of a private residence.
Vehicles
Prohibits continued or frequent sounding of horns except as a warning. Operation of vehicles creating loud, unnecessary grating, grinding, jarring, rattling noise, or vibrations is prohibited. Exhausts without mufflers are prohibited. Vehicle sound equipment audible or causing vibration 30 feet away is prohibited.
Noise Protection Score
How well does Midland protect residents from noise?
Qualitative standard
Standard coverage
Standard fines
4 noise categories regulated
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the quiet hours in Midland, TX?
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Midland's quiet hours: 10PM-10AM (residential amplified sound); 10:30PM-7AM (public amplified sound). During these hours, noise must stay below residential nighttime decibel limits at the property line. Violations can result in fines on the first offense.
What are the noise decibel limits in Midland?
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Midland's residential noise limits: Not specified (based on 'ordinary sensibilities' standard, but 75dB for amplified sound) dB(A) during the day and Not specified (based on 'ordinary sensibilities' standard, but 75dB for amplified sound) dB(A) at night. Commercial zones allow Not specified (based on 'ordinary sensibilities' standard). Limits are measured at the receiving property line.
How do I file a noise complaint in Midland?
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Call the Midland police non-emergency line at (432) 685-7108. For ongoing violations, contact code enforcement at (432) 685-7410. Have the address, noise type, and duration ready. You can request to remain anonymous.
What is the fine for a noise violation in Midland?
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Midland's noise violation penalties: Violations are punishable by fines up to $500.. Fines typically escalate with repeat offenses and may result in misdemeanor charges for chronic violations.
What are the dog barking rules in Midland?
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Midland's rules: Falls under the general 'unreasonably loud, disturbing, raucous, or unnecessary noise' nuisance standard if it interferes with the comfortable enjoyment of a private residence.. To report a barking dog, contact animal control at Not specified or the police non-emergency line.
When can construction work start in Midland?
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Midland's construction noise rules: Drilling for oil and gas wells is allowed 24 hours without time constraints. General construction noise falls under the 'unreasonably loud' nuisance standard.. Violations can be reported to code enforcement, which can issue stop-work orders for unpermitted or off-hours construction.
Are there rules about loud music in Midland?
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Yes. Midland's ordinance: Prohibited in public between 10:30 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. In residential areas, sound equipment audible beyond the property line is prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. and should not exceed 75 decibels. Loudspeakers or amplifiers that annoy persons of ordinary sensibilities are prohibited, with exceptions for public events with advance permission.. Music exceeding residential decibel limits or plainly audible across property lines during quiet hours is a citable violation.
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