9 county-level rules, plus city-specific rules for 3 cities in Montgomery County, Maryland.
Verified from official government sources
Montgomery County enforces noise regulations under MoCo Code Chapter 31B. Nighttime noise limits are stricter between 9 PM and 7 AM in residential areas. The county uses both decibel measurements and a subjective disturbance standard for enforcement. MC311 handles noise complaints at 240-773-0311.
Montgomery County limits construction noise in residential areas to 7 AM to 9 PM Monday through Friday and 9 AM to 9 PM on weekends under Chapter 31B. Emergency and public utility work is exempt. Permits required for extended-hour construction projects.
Montgomery County Code Chapter 5 (Animal Control) prohibits owners from allowing animals to cause noise loud enough and persistent enough to disturb another person's quiet enjoyment. Fine is $100 for noise violations.
Montgomery County Code Chapter 5, Section 5-203 (Public Nuisance Laws - Animal Noise)
Animal Noise (Montgomery County Code, Sec. 5-203(a)(6)) - An owner must not allow an animal to cause noise that is loud enough and persistent enough to disturb another person's quiet enjoyment. ($100 fine). Unsanitary conditions - (Montgomery County Code, Sec. 5-203(a)(5)) - An owner must not allow an animal to cause an unsanitary, dangerous or offensive condition because of the size or number ...
Montgomery County enacted one of the strictest gas-powered leaf blower bans in the nation under Bill 35-20. Effective January 2025, gas-powered leaf blowers are banned in residential areas. Only battery or electric blowers are permitted. Commercial landscapers must transition fully to electric equipment.
Montgomery County regulates amplified music and sound under Chapter 31B. Amplified sound audible beyond property lines in residential areas may constitute a violation, especially between 9 PM and 7 AM. Special event permits are available for outdoor amplified music at festivals and gatherings.
Montgomery County experiences aircraft noise primarily from Dulles International Airport (IAD) flight paths over Potomac and Poolesville, and from general aviation at Montgomery County Airpark (GAI). The county has limited regulatory authority over aircraft noise, which is federally preempted by the FAA.
Montgomery County regulates industrial and commercial noise under Chapter 31B with decibel limits at property boundaries. Industrial zones adjacent to residential areas face stricter standards. The Department of Environmental Protection conducts noise monitoring for persistent complaints.
Montgomery County enforces decibel-based noise limits under Chapter 31B measured at the receiving property line. Residential zones have lower thresholds than commercial or industrial zones, with stricter limits during nighttime hours from 9 PM to 7 AM.
Montgomery County requires permits for organized outdoor music events under Chapter 31B and DPS special event regulations. Casual outdoor music at residences must not exceed noise standards at property lines, with stricter enforcement after 9 PM in residential areas.
3 cities in Montgomery County have their own noise ordinances rules. Each link goes to that city's dedicated page with code citations.
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Montgomery County Ordinance Hub →