Prince George's County, MD Noise Ordinances: Construction Hours (2026)
Construction hours in Prince George's County, MD, sometimes called construction noise rules or contractor work-hour ordinances, set when contractors can run power tools, hammers, and heavy equipment.
Key Facts
- Loud-work window
- 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Limit, no plan
- 75 dBA
- Limit, approved plan
- 85 dBA
- Measured at
- 50 ft from source
Summary
Prince George's County allows louder construction noise only during daytime work hours. From 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. construction may reach 75 dBA, or 85 dBA with an approved noise-suppression plan; at all other times the standard residential limits apply.
A person must not cause or permit noise levels from construction activity that exceed the following levels: (A) From 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.: (i) 75 dBA if the Department has not approved a noise-suppression plan … or (ii) 85 dBA if the Department has approved a noise-suppression plan …
Full Breakdown
Under County Code § 19-122.01, construction activity noise may not exceed 75 dBA from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. without an approved noise-suppression plan, or 85 dBA if the Department of Permitting, Inspections and Enforcement has approved such a plan. Outside 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., the ordinary residential limits in § 19-122(a) apply (65 dBA day / 55 dBA night). Construction noise is measured at least 50 feet from the source at the receiving property where noise is greatest. The construction 'noise disturbance' prohibition also applies regardless of the decibel readings. Construction and repair work on public property is exempt. Municipalities such as Bowie and College Park set their own construction-hour windows that may be tighter.
Violations & Fines
Fines up to $1,000 for a first offense and $1,500 for each subsequent offense, by criminal misdemeanor or civil citation. Each day is a separate offense; imprisonment up to 30 days is possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
When can construction make noise in Prince George's County?
Is a noise-suppression plan required?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Prince George's County
How Prince George's County compares: Cities with the Strictest Construction Hours·Compare Prince George's County to another location·View the Maryland noise ordinances overview
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