Quiet hours in Montgomery County, MD — also called the noise ordinance, nighttime noise rules, or residential quiet time — define the hours during which excessive noise is prohibited.
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 Code Chapter 31B governs noise control throughout unincorporated areas. The ordinance prohibits noise that unreasonably disturbs the peace, quiet, and comfort of residents. Residential zones receive heightened protection during nighttime hours from 9 PM to 7 AM when ambient noise levels are lower and disturbances more noticeable. Enforcement uses both a subjective standard (whether noise disturbs a reasonable person) and objective decibel measurements taken at the receiving property line. The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) handles chronic noise complaints during business hours while Montgomery County Police respond to acute nighttime disturbances. Maryland Environment Article Title 3 provides additional state-level noise authority. HOA-governed communities such as those in Bethesda, Potomac, and Germantown may impose stricter quiet-hour policies under MD Code Ann Real Property Article governing HOA authority. The county sits within the Chesapeake Bay Critical Area, which influences some environmental noise regulations near waterways.
Civil citation under Chapter 31B: fines starting at $500 for first offense, up to $1,000 for repeat violations. Persistent noise nuisance may result in injunctive relief through circuit court.
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