Glen Burnie's Noise Ordinances: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles noise ordinances a little differently. In Glen Burnie, Maryland, there are 3 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Quiet Hours

Glen Burnie is unincorporated and follows Anne Arundel County noise regulations under County Code Section 9-1-706 and Maryland COMAR 26.02.03. Residential receiving properties are limited to 65 dBA daytime and 55 dBA nighttime. Audio devices at unreasonably loud volume are prohibited at any time in residential districts.

Key details: Daytime Limit: 65 dBA (7 AM–10 PM). Nighttime Limit: 55 dBA (10 PM–7 AM). Audio Devices: No unreasonably loud volume in residential districts. Enforcement: Anne Arundel County Police.

First offense warning or citation. Fines typically $100 to $500. Repeat violations: escalating fines up to $1,000.

Construction Hours

Glen Burnie follows Anne Arundel County and Maryland state noise standards for construction. The standard 65 dBA daytime and 55 dBA nighttime residential limits apply. Maryland state law exempts certain construction activities from standard noise limits but blasting is restricted to daytime only.

Key details: Daytime Limit: 65 dBA (7 AM–10 PM). Nighttime Limit: 55 dBA (10 PM–7 AM). Blasting: Daytime only. State Exemption: Some construction activities exempt under COMAR.

Stop-work orders for violations. Fines $100 to $500 per occurrence. Repeat offenders may lose permit privileges.

Barking Dogs

Under Anne Arundel County Code Section 12-4-903, it is unlawful to permit an animal to disturb the quiet of a person or neighborhood. Continual barking, howling, or whining causing unreasonable disturbance is a public nuisance. Dogs must bark for 5 consecutive minutes to qualify for a complaint.

Key details: Standard: Unreasonable annoyance or disturbance. Duration: 5 minutes continuous barking. Daytime Complaints: Animal Control (7 AM–11 PM). Nighttime Complaints: Police (11 PM–7 AM). Fine: $50–$500 per violation.

Warning letter first. Administrative fines $100 to $500. Daily fines for non-compliance. Court-ordered remediation possible.

The Bottom Line

Glen Burnie's noise ordinances rules are a mixed bag. Some areas are strict, others are relaxed, and the details matter. The best approach is to check the specific rule that applies to your situation rather than assuming Glen Burnie is broadly strict or permissive.

This guide is based on Glen Burnie's current municipal code. Local rules can and do change, so check the individual ordinance pages for the latest details, penalties, and FAQs.