Editor’s Note: El Paso Matters is partnering with Gigafact to produce “fact briefs” that examine claims about issues shaping our community.
No.
The city of El Paso’s noise ordinance prohibits sounds that exceed 70 decibels between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m., including noise created by lawn mowers. Those who violate the ordinance may be fined up to $500.
Other noises that may violate the ordinance include loud animals, construction work, alarms, loud-speakers, mechanical devices and off-road vehicles.
Under Section 51.001 of the state’s local government code, Texas cities have authority to establish noise ordinances. The code does not give counties the same authority.
But, under Texas penal code, residents are allowed to file a complaint for unreasonable noise that exceeds a decibel level of 85 at a point where it is heard by others. The code states, “A person commits an offense if he intentionally or knowingly makes unreasonable noise in a public place … or in or near a private residence that he has no right to occupy.”
This fact brief is responsive to conversations such as this one.
SOURCES:
El Paso Noise Ordinance, City of El Paso
Texas Statutes, Local Government
Texas Statutes, Noise Ordinances
The post Can you use a motorized lawn mower before 7 a.m. in El Paso? appeared first on El Paso Matters.
Read: Read More