Noise Complaints in Houston: What You Need to Know

Houston is a vibrant city—and a noisy one. A recent study ranked Houston as the second loudest city in the United States. Each day, up to 40 noise complaints are submitted through the city’s 311 system. In 2024 alone, the Houston Police Department issued over 1,000 citations for disorderly conduct, many in response to excessive noise. Filing noise complaints in Houston is easier than you think. Here’s how to file them – and what to do if you need a more lasting solution.

Filing a Houston Noise Complaint Online

Residents can submit noise complaints to Houston 311 through several channels:

• Online at houston311.org
• By email at 311@houstontx.gov
• By phone by dialing 311 within Houston city limits

You may also view active and past complaints online. If your concern has already been reported, you are still encouraged to submit your own report—multiple submissions for the same issue may increase the likelihood of enforcement.

Is my Noise Complaint Valid?

What Qualifies as a Valid Noise Complaint?

Houston’s noise ordinance—Chapter 30 of the City Code—establishes maximum allowable sound levels:

• 75 dB at any time
• 68 dB during nighttime hours
• 58 dB when measured from a residence

To put this in context:

• A typical conversation measures around 60 dB
• A refrigerator’s hum is about 55–58 dB

The ordinance also prohibits any business from playing amplified music between 2:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m.

Once a complaint is submitted, it is reviewed by the Houston Police Department. If the noise is deemed a public nuisance or causes unreasonable discomfort, HPD may issue a citation. Commercial offenders may face fines of up to $2,000 per violation.

You can read more about public and private nuisances under Texas state law here.

What if the Complaint Isn’t Resolved?

Even when valid, many noise complaints take time to process—or go unresolved. If you’re dealing with persistent noise problems, you may need a more effective and immediate solution.

A Lasting Solution: Soundproof Window Inserts

Imagine if the sound keeping you awake at night could be reduced by up to 95%. Our soundproof window inserts are custom-built to address exactly this issue.

• Reduce intrusive sound from traffic, machinery, or nightlife
• Block up to 95% of high-frequency and 75% of low-frequency noise
• Maintain the appearance of your existing windows
• No need to replace glass or frames

We custom-manufacture inserts to fit any window size or shape. Installation is typically completed in one day with minimal disruption to your space. Most importantly, you get immediate, measurable relief from ongoing noise disturbances.

Get A Free Estimate

Sun and Sound Windows provides free, no-obligation estimates for residential and commercial clients in the Houston, Austin, and Dallas–Fort Worth regions. If you’re dealing with a noise complaint—or want to avoid filing one altogether—our window inserts offer a proven and permanent solution.

Request your free estimate today and take the first step toward restoring peace and quiet in your home.