Annapolis, MD Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Annapolis, MD?
| Regulation | Details for Annapolis, MD |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 10PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 410-268-9000 |
10 PM-7 AM
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Annapolis, MD Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Annapolis, MD?
Annapolis, MD, noise ordinance, Section 11.12.020, prohibits noise exceeding 65 dBA during daytime (7 AM-10 PM) and 55 dBA at night (10 PM-7 AM) in residential areas. Commercial areas have higher limits. The ordinance also bans gas-powered leaf blowers in residential zones, effective January 1, 2025. Violations incur escalating fines and other legal remedies.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 65 dBA (7 AM - 10 PM) | 55 dBA (10 PM - 7 AM) |
| Commercial | 75 dBA (7 AM - 10 PM) | 75 dBA (10 PM - 7 AM) |
Note: Annapolis City Ordinance O-28-23 (now Section 11.12.020) adopts Maryland Environmental Noise Standards (COMAR 26.02.03.01 and 26.02.03.02) but establishes its own specific maximum decibel levels for different zoning districts, superseding COMAR's general table. Office and mixed-use districts have limits of 67 dBA during the day and 62 dBA at night. Measurements are generally taken at the edge of the complainant's property.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Construction and demolition noise is permitted between 7 AM and 10 PM daily, not to exceed 90 dBA. Construction on public property is generally exempt.
- Amplified Sound:
Unreasonably loud amplified musical instruments or sound devices are prohibited in residential districts at any time. Between 10 PM and 7 AM, the use of musical instruments or other machines/tools at an unreasonably loud volume in residential areas is prohibited. Sound heard 50 feet from the source is prima facie evidence of a violation.
- Animals:
It is unlawful for an animal to roam freely off the owner's property or to disturb the quiet of a person or neighborhood. Owners are responsible for promptly removing pet waste. Dog barking complaints are handled by Anne Arundel County Animal Control between 7 AM and 11 PM, and by the Police Department between 11 PM and 7 AM if the dog barks for 5 minutes straight.
- Vehicles:
Annapolis adopted the Code of Maryland Regulations 11.14.07.02 through 11.14.07.12 as its Motor Vehicle Noise Standards. Maryland law prohibits operating a vehicle with an illegally modified muffler or one that exceeds 80 decibels.
- Leaf Blowers:
The use of gas-powered leaf blowers in residential districts within the City of Annapolis is prohibited, effective January 1, 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions about Annapolis, MD Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Annapolis, MD?
10 PM-7 AM. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Annapolis, MD?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 65 dBA (7 AM - 10 PM) during the day and 55 dBA (10 PM - 7 AM) at night. Excessive vibration or bass that is plainly audible at the property line may also be a violation.
Who do I contact to report a noise violation in Annapolis, MD?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Annapolis, MD police non-emergency line at 410-268-9000. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 410-260-2200 Ext. 7808 (Annapolis City Chief of Code Enforcement).