The Resolution Path
1. Local Ordinance
2. Document Evidence
3. Resolve Dispute
The Resolution Path
Step 1 of 3Ocean City, MD
Noise Ordinance Overview
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Official Decibel Limits
volume_up"Maryland law specifies residential limits. On the boardwalk, speakers, radios, and shouting are generally limited to 60-75 decibels, with higher limits (75 dB) for the busier area south of 12th Street and lower (70 dB) for the quieter area north of 12th Street, with enforcement based on a 10-second duration."
AI Executive Summary
Ocean City, MD noise ordinances prohibit loud and disturbing noises that endanger comfort, health, peace, or safety. Disruptive noises audible 50 feet from a building are unlawful between midnight and 7 a.m. Vehicle noise audible at 50 feet is prohibited at all times. Boardwalk amplified sound has decibel limits.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction
Construction noise is generally limited to 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.. A temporary extension to 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. was approved for a specific project due to COVID-19.
Amplified Sound
It is unlawful to make, cause or continue loud and disturbing noises. On the boardwalk, speakers, radios, and shouting are limited to between 60-75 decibels depending on time and location. The current noise ordinance pertaining to the boardwalk previously had a 30-foot audibility restriction, which was subject to legal challenges.
Animals
All dogs must be kept on a leash in the Ocean City area. Pets are permitted on the beach or boardwalk only between October 1st and April 30th. Owners are required to remove any waste deposited by their dogs on public or private property.
Vehicles
No loud noises are to be made that can be heard at a distance of 50 feet from a vehicle at any time. This includes excessive or abrupt acceleration/deceleration, skidding or squealing tires, swerving, unreasonably loud engine noise, and grinding gears.
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