Imagine this: You’re throwing a Super Bowl party and your neighbors complain about the noise coming from your house because you and your guests are cheering on Taylor Swift + the Kansas City Chiefs — hey KCtoday.
Did you know San Antonio has a running noise ordinance that outlines how loud we can be? It’s currently undergoing a review and revamp — but we’re here to break down the current ordinance so you can enjoy your next gathering without disturbing your neighbors.
Noise ordinance breakdown
The current city noise ordinance enforces sounds emitted from residences, businesses, and industrial + entertainment zones across San Antonio. The ordinance is required between 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday + Saturday.
Each zone has it’s own decibel limit — measured by a sound level meter — and is reduced by seven decibels at night. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Residences: 63 decibels (daytime) and 56 decibels (nighttime)
- Businesses: 70 decibels (daytime) and 63 decibels (nighttime)
- Industrial zones: 72 decibels (daytime) and 65 decibels (nighttime)
- Entertainment zones: 85 decibels (daytime) and 78 decibels (nighttime)
Did you know the River Walk has its own set of rules? The nighttime decibel reduction rate does not apply to the River Walk, but all speakers + noise must be contained inside the establishments.
Check out the list of exceptions including parades, stadium events, and emergency vehicles.
Reporting and violations
Sometimes we can get a little rowdy while throwing a birthday party or watching the big Spurs game. If you’re trying to get some sleep and your neighbor is being too loud, complaints can be made by calling the San Antonio Police Department non-emergency line at (210) 207-7273.
Unfortunately, if you violate the ordinance, it does come with a fine between $100 and $2,000 — ouch.