Section 20-1, Noise, as amended by ordinance 2001-265 of the City of Denton Code of Ordinances prohibits any unreasonably loud, disturbing, or unnecessary noise. The noise ordinance uses two criteria for a violation:
- hours of operation - or, the time the noise is created.
- sound measurement level, - or, how loud is the sound.
No sound is allowed to be of a greater intensity than 65 DBA when measured 50 feet from the source; or 50 DBA in a multi-family dwelling during the day, or be clearly audible within any unit that is not the source of the sound during the night. In addition, it is a violation of the ordinance to play musical instruments, or produce amplified sound that is clearly audible in another person's residence. The noise ordinance does allow Council to make exception to the ordinance - if a public interest is served.
If you plan on using musical instruments, your event is outside, and you meet certain additional requirements, you may qualify as an outdoor music festival. To discuss the requirements of an outdoor music festival, please call (940) 349-8272.
The following steps are taken to process an exception to the noise ordinance:
- The requestor must submit a letter requesting an exception to the noise ordinance.
The letter should provide the following information:
- Date
- Time
- Location
- Activities to be conducted
- Explanation of how the public interest will be served.
- You must return your letter of request to the following address at least four to six weeks before your event.
Janie McLeod
Community Events Coordinator
City Hall East
601 E. Hickory, Suite B
Denton, TX 76205
Large events that are historically well attended events, or new events that are expected to attract over large amounts of people should start the noise exception process well in advance of their event date. Failure to meet the above requirements may delay or lead to a denial of your noise exception request.
If you have additional questions, please call (940) 349-8272.