What are the quiet hours in Ocean City, MD?

In Ocean City, MD, designated quiet hours are typically 12AM-7AM. During these times, noise must be kept to a minimum.

Who do I call for a noise complaint in Ocean City, MD?

For non-emergencies in Ocean City, MD, contact the police at 410-723-6610. For code violations, contact Code Enforcement at 410-289-8855 (Building Inspection Department – Housing Code Violations).

Ocean City, MD Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]

When are quiet hours in Ocean City, MD?

Regulation	Details for Ocean City, MD
Quiet Hours	12AM-7AM
Weekends	Typically same as weekdays
Enforcement	Police Non-Emergency: 410-723-6610

Midnight to 7 a.m. (noises audible 50 feet from building)

Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.

Who To Call (Non-Emergency)

410-723-6610 How to file a complaint →

Ocean City, MD Noise Rules

Verified 2026

What is the noise ordinance in Ocean City, MD?

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.

Decibel Limit Comparison

Decibel limits for residential and commercial zones in Ocean City, MD
Zone Type	Day	Night
Residential	65 dB(A) (7 a.m. to 10 p.m.)	55 dB(A) (10 p.m. to 7 a.m.)
Commercial	Not specified	Not specified

Note: 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.

Specific 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.

Frequently Asked Questions about Ocean City, MD Noise Rules

What are the designated quiet hours in Ocean City, MD?

Midnight to 7 a.m. (noises audible 50 feet from building). Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.

How loud can I play music in Ocean City, MD?

Residential areas typically have a limit of 65 dB(A) (7 a.m. to 10 p.m.) during the day and 55 dB(A) (10 p.m. to 7 a.m.) 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 Ocean City, MD?

For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Ocean City, MD police non-emergency line at 410-723-6610. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 410-289-8855 (Building Inspection Department – Housing Code Violations).

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