San Antonio, TX Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in San Antonio, TX?
| Regulation | Details for San Antonio, TX |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-6AM Sun-Thu, 11PM-6AM Fri-Sat |
| Weekends | See specific hours above |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 210-207-7273 |
Sunday-Thursday: 10 PM-6 AM; Friday-Saturday: 11 PM-6 AM
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
San Antonio, TX Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in San Antonio, TX?
San Antonio, TX noise ordinances, primarily regulated under Chapter 21, Article III of the City's Code of Ordinances, prohibit unreasonably loud or disturbing sounds. Decibel limits vary by zoning, with residential areas capped at 63 dB(A) during the day and 56 dB(A) at night. Quiet hours are generally 10 PM to 6 AM on weekdays and 11 PM to 6 AM on weekends, with stricter enforcement.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 63 dB(A) | 56 dB(A) |
| Commercial | 70 dB(A) | 63 dB(A) |
Note: Decibel measurements are taken from an adjacent property under separate ownership. Nighttime limits are 7 dB(A) lower than daytime limits. Industrial zones have a daytime limit of 72 dB(A) and a nighttime limit of 65 dB(A). Entertainment zones have a daytime limit of 85 dB(A) and a nighttime limit of 78 dB(A). The River Walk has special rules, allowing a maximum of 72 dB(A) and 80 dB(C), and the nighttime reduction does not apply, with speakers required to be inside establishments.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Not specified beyond general noise limits. Typically, loud construction activities would fall under general daytime decibel limits.
- Amplified Sound:
Unlawful to operate sound amplification equipment producing sounds over 55 dB(A) between 9 AM and 9 PM, or 50 dB(A) between 9 PM and 9 AM, measured within the nearest residentially occupied property, without a permit. Sound trucks and amplified sound reproduction machines are prohibited at the airport. Permits may be required for outdoor amplified sound.
- Animals:
Prohibits the keeping of any animal, fowl, or bird that makes frequent or prolonged noise and constitutes a noise nuisance.
- Vehicles:
Discharge of exhaust from engines must be through a muffler or device preventing loud or explosive noises. Sound from a machine or device in a motor vehicle on a public street that is audible at a distance of 50 feet is prohibited. Excessive or prolonged use of horns, sirens, whistles, or other noise-generating devices is strictly prohibited, except as a danger signal.
Frequently Asked Questions about San Antonio, TX Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in San Antonio, TX?
Sunday-Thursday: 10 PM-6 AM; Friday-Saturday: 11 PM-6 AM. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in San Antonio, TX?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 63 dB(A) during the day and 56 dB(A) 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 San Antonio, TX?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the San Antonio, TX police non-emergency line at 210-207-7273. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 210-207-6000.