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The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3Pasadena, TX
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"Pasadena's Noise Ordinance prohibits noise exceeding the ambient by more than 5 decibels at the property line. The general peak sound pressure level is 75 dB(A) at any time on any receiving property. Specific limits apply to certain equipment and times."
AI Executive Summary
Pasadena, TX noise ordinances, found primarily in Chapter 9.36 and Sec. 20-1 of the City Code, prohibit any noise exceeding the ambient level by more than 5 decibels at a property line, or a peak sound level of 75 dB(A) on any receiving property. Specific restrictions govern amplified sound and construction, aiming to ensure peace and comfort for residents.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
Construction activity is permitted weekdays from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM and Saturdays from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is prohibited on Sundays and holidays within residential districts or within a 500-foot radius. Powered construction equipment is limited to 85 dBA at 100 feet. An exception exists for owners/lessors performing work with no more than two assistants.
Amplified Sound
Operation of sound amplifying equipment is limited between 10:00 PM and 8:00 AM Monday through Saturday. Commercial use is not permitted on Sundays or legal holidays. Non-commercial use on Sundays and legal holidays is permitted between 10:00 AM and 10:00 PM, except on New Year's Day. Sound levels from amplified equipment must not continuously exceed 15 decibels above the ambient noise level at the property line. Operation is prohibited within 200 feet of a church or city building without consent. Sound plainly audible at 50 feet from a vehicle is prima facie evidence of a violation.
Animals
Noisy animals and birds are prohibited if they disturb the peace, quiet, and comfort of neighboring inhabitants.
Vehicles
Operating sound equipment in a vehicle in a manner that disturbs the peace or is louder than necessary for convenient hearing within the vehicle is prohibited. Sound plainly audible at 50 feet from the vehicle is prima facie evidence of a violation.
Lawn/Garden Tools
Mechanically powered saws, drills, sanders, routers, grinders, lawn mowers, or similar devices used between 7:00 AM and 8:00 PM must not exceed 85 dB(A) when measured from the nearest residential property.
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