Decibel Limits: Gaithersburg vs Rockville
How do decibel limits rules compare between Gaithersburg, MD and Rockville, MD?
Gaithersburg and Rockville have similar restriction levels.
Gaithersburg, MD
Montgomery County
Montgomery County Code Chapter 31B sets specific decibel limits for Gaithersburg based on zoning and time of day. Residential zones are limited to 65 dBA daytime and 55 dBA nighttime. Commercial and industrial zones have higher thresholds. Enforcement uses calibrated sound-level meters at the receiving property line.
View full Gaithersburg rules →Rockville, MD
Montgomery County
MoCo Code Chapter 31B sets decibel limits by zone in Rockville. Residential: 65/55 dBA day/night. Commercial: 67/62 dBA. Industrial: 75/70 dBA.
View full Rockville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gaithersburg | Rockville |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Day | 65 dBA maximum | 65 dBA |
| Residential Night | 55 dBA maximum | 55 dBA |
| Commercial Day | 67 dBA maximum | 67 dBA |
| Industrial Day | 75 dBA maximum | - |
| Measurement | A-weighted at property line | - |
| Commercial Night | - | 62 dBA |
| State Standard | - | COMAR 26.02.03 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gaithersburg FAQ
What are the decibel limits in Gaithersburg residential areas?
Residential zones are limited to 65 dBA during daytime and 55 dBA during nighttime under Montgomery County Code Chapter 31B. Measurements are taken at the receiving property line.
How are noise levels measured for enforcement?
Enforcement uses calibrated Type II or better sound-level meters with A-weighted slow response at the receiving property line. Impulsive sounds and pure tones may receive a 5 dBA penalty.
Rockville FAQ
What is the nighttime noise limit in Rockville neighborhoods?
The nighttime noise limit at residential property lines is 55 dBA, measured in A-weighted decibels. Nighttime runs from 9 PM to 7 AM on weekdays and 9 PM to 9 AM on weekends and holidays.
How are noise levels measured for enforcement?
Montgomery County DEP uses calibrated sound-level meters at the location on the receiving property where noise from the source is greatest. Measurements use A-weighted decibel scale.
Can I request a noise waiver?
Yes. The DEP may grant temporary noise waivers for activities that will exceed standard limits, such as special events or necessary construction. Applications must be submitted in advance.
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