Decibel Limits: Rockville vs Takoma Park
How do decibel limits rules compare between Rockville, MD and Takoma Park, MD?
Rockville has fewer restrictions than Takoma Park.
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 →Takoma Park, MD
Montgomery County
Takoma Park sets residential decibel limits at 65 dBA daytime and 55 dBA nighttime under Ordinance 2002-35. If ambient noise already exceeds these thresholds, the limit adjusts to ambient plus 3 dBA. Leaf blowers are separately capped at 70 dBA at 50 feet. A sound meter reading is not required to establish a violation.
View full Takoma Park rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Rockville | Takoma Park |
|---|---|---|
| Residential Day | 65 dBA | - |
| Residential Night | 55 dBA | - |
| Commercial Day | 67 dBA | - |
| Commercial Night | 62 dBA | - |
| State Standard | COMAR 26.02.03 | - |
| Daytime | - | 65 dBA (7 AM - 8 PM wkdy) |
| Nighttime | - | 55 dBA (8 PM - 7 AM wkdy) |
| Ambient Rule | - | Ambient + 3 dBA |
| Leaf Blowers | - | 70 dBA at 50 feet |
| Meter Required | - | No |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
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.
Takoma Park FAQ
What are the decibel limits in Takoma Park?
65 dBA during daytime and 55 dBA during nighttime at the receiving property. If ambient noise exceeds these thresholds, the limit adjusts to ambient plus 3 dBA.
Do enforcement officers need a sound meter to issue a citation?
No. A sound level meter measurement is not required. Violations can be established based on the subjective noise disturbance standard covering unpleasant, annoying, or offensive sound.
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