Baltimore County, MD Noise Ordinances: Leaf Blower Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- County leaf-blower ban
- None
- Daytime dB limit
- 65 dBA residential
- Nighttime dB limit
- 55 dBA residential
- Practical use window
- Daytime, 7 a.m.–10 p.m.
- Governing rule
- COMAR 26.02.03.02
Summary
Baltimore County has no leaf-blower-specific ban or hour restriction in its code. Gas leaf blowers must comply with Maryland's COMAR noise limits, which cap noise at 65 dBA daytime and 55 dBA nighttime at a residential property line, effectively restricting use to daytime hours.
Table 1 Maximum Allowable Noise Levels (dBA): Residential Day 65, Night 55; Commercial Day 67, Night 62; Industrial Day 75, Night 75.
Full Breakdown
The county code contains no dedicated leaf-blower ordinance, so the general noise rules apply. Because a leaf blower is powered equipment (not 'domestic noise' from human activity), it is governed by Maryland COMAR 26.02.03: at a residential receiving property, noise may not exceed 65 dBA daytime (7 a.m.–10 p.m.) or 55 dBA at night (10 p.m.–7 a.m.). Gas blowers commonly exceed the nighttime limit, so use is practically confined to daytime. Individual municipalities in the county may impose their own leaf-blower hour or equipment restrictions.
Violations & Fines
Exceeding the COMAR dB limit can prompt Maryland Department of the Environment enforcement and abatement orders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are gas leaf blowers banned in Baltimore County?
When can I use a leaf blower?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Baltimore County
How Baltimore County compares: Cities with the Strictest Leaf Blower Rules·Compare Baltimore County to another location·View the Maryland noise ordinances overview
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