Takoma Park Noise Ordinances: Decibel Limits Rules (2026)

Takoma Park's noise ordinance (Chapter 14.12, Section 5) establishes quantitative decibel limits for all noise sources. The maximum allowable sound level is 65 dBA during daytime (7 AM to 8 PM weekdays, 9 AM to 10 PM weekends/holidays) and 55 dBA during nighttime (8 PM to 7 AM weekdays, 10 PM to 9 AM weekends/holidays). These limits are measured at the receiving property. An important adjustment clause provides that if ambient noise already exceeds the standard limits, the threshold rises to the ambient noise level plus 3 dBA. This accounts for naturally louder environments near busy roads or the Metro. Leaf blowers have a separate, source-based limit of 70 dBA at a distance of 50 feet (Section 8). Burglar alarms are limited to 30-minute activation periods (Section 10). Critically, a sound level meter measurement is not required to establish a noise disturbance. The broader noise disturbance definition allows enforcement based on subjective criteria: sound that is unpleasant, annoying, offensive, loud, or detrimental to health and comfort. This dual standard gives enforcement officers flexibility. Montgomery County construction noise standards (31B-6) apply separately and allow higher levels (75-85 dBA) during weekday work hours. Takoma Park's limits are stricter than Montgomery County's general residential standard of 65 dBA day / 55 dBA night.