Quiet Hours: Gaithersburg vs Takoma Park
How do quiet hours rules compare between Gaithersburg, MD and Takoma Park, MD?
Gaithersburg has fewer restrictions than Takoma Park.
Gaithersburg, MD
Montgomery County
Gaithersburg enforces noise regulations under City Code Chapter 15 and Montgomery County Code Chapter 31B. Noise that is plainly audible beyond property boundaries during nighttime hours may result in violations. The city follows county-level enforcement standards with additional municipal protections for residential zones.
View full Gaithersburg rules →Takoma Park, MD
Montgomery County
Takoma Park enforces strict quiet hours under Ordinance 2002-35 (Chapter 14.12). Nighttime runs 8 PM to 7 AM weekdays and 10 PM to 9 AM weekends/holidays with a 55 dBA limit. Daytime allows up to 65 dBA. Two written complaints trigger a citation. Fines reach $200 first offense and $400 for repeats within one year.
View full Takoma Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gaithersburg | Takoma Park |
|---|---|---|
| City Code | Chapter 15 – Noise | - |
| County Code | MoCo Ch 31B | - |
| Night Hours | 9 PM–7 AM weekdays | - |
| Weekend Night | 9 PM–9 AM | 10 PM - 9 AM, 55 dBA max |
| Residential Limit | 55 dBA nighttime | - |
| Weekday Night | - | 8 PM - 7 AM, 55 dBA max |
| Daytime Limit | - | 65 dBA |
| First Offense | - | Up to $200 fine |
| Code | - | Ch. 14.12, Ord. 2002-35 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gaithersburg FAQ
What are quiet hours in Gaithersburg?
Nighttime quiet hours run from 9 PM to 7 AM on weekdays and 9 PM to 9 AM on weekends and holidays. Stricter decibel limits apply during these periods under Montgomery County Code Chapter 31B.
Who handles noise complaints in Gaithersburg?
Contact the Gaithersburg non-emergency line at (301) 258-6400 for city enforcement. Montgomery County Department of Environmental Protection also handles noise complaints under county code.
Takoma Park FAQ
What are Takoma Park quiet hours?
Nighttime quiet hours run 8 PM to 7 AM on weekdays and 10 PM to 9 AM on weekends and holidays. Maximum sound level is 55 dBA during these periods.
How do I file a noise complaint in Takoma Park?
Contact Code Enforcement at 301-891-7113 or email codeenforcement@takomaparkmd.gov. Two written complaints are needed to trigger a citation, filed within 10 days of the violation.
Are there exemptions to quiet hours?
Yes. Emergency services, city-sanctioned events, and permitted sports/entertainment events (9 AM to 10 PM) are exempt. City trash collection may begin at 6:30 AM or 5:30 AM when temperatures exceed 90 degrees.
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