Rockville, MD Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Rockville, MD?
| Regulation | Details for Rockville, MD |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 9PM-7AM weekdays, 9PM-9AM weekends/holidays (general); 10PM-7AM (amplified sound) |
| Weekends | See specific hours above |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 240-314-8900 (Rockville City); 301-279-8000 (Montgomery County for after-hours noise complaints) |
Weekdays: 9 PM - 7 AM; Weekends and Holidays: 9 PM - 9 AM (general Montgomery County). Amplified sound from bars/restaurants: 10 PM - 7 AM (Rockville City).
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Rockville, MD Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Rockville, MD?
Rockville, MD, noise ordinances are primarily governed by Montgomery County's Chapter 31B and supplemented by Chapter 7 of the City Code. They establish specific decibel limits for residential and commercial areas during the day and night, alongside restrictions on construction, amplified sound, and other noise disturbances, enforced by the Department of Environmental Management and police.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 65 dBA | 55 dBA |
| Commercial | 75 dBA | 65 dBA |
Note: Limits apply at the receiving property line. If ambient noise exceeds the maximum allowable level, the standard is adjusted to ambient + 3 dBA.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
Permitted 7 AM - 7 PM weekdays and 9 AM - 5 PM weekends. Noise levels must not exceed 75 dBA, or 85 dBA if a noise-suppression plan is approved.
- Amplified Sound:
From bars or restaurants, must not exceed 60 dBA between 10 PM - 7 AM. Operating radios, televisions, or other electronic sound-producing devices exceeding 55 dBA at the residential receiving property line is illegal during quiet hours.
- Animals:
It is unlawful to allow an animal to create a noise disturbance, such as a barking dog.
- Vehicles:
Noises from motorized vehicles on public roadways are regulated under the State Motor Vehicle Code by the Police, not the Montgomery County Noise Control Law. Maryland and federal regulations establish a maximum sound limit of 80 decibels for vehicles.
- Leaf Blowers:
Must not exceed an average sound level of 70 dBA at 50 feet. After July 1, 2024, gas-powered leaf blowers and vacuums may not be sold in Montgomery County, and after July 1, 2025, they may not be used.
- Loading/Unloading:
Unlawful during 'quiet hours' if sound exceeds 55 decibels (Montgomery County).
Frequently Asked Questions about Rockville, MD Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Rockville, MD?
Weekdays: 9 PM - 7 AM; Weekends and Holidays: 9 PM - 9 AM (general Montgomery County). Amplified sound from bars/restaurants: 10 PM - 7 AM (Rockville City).. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Rockville, MD?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 65 dBA during the day and 55 dBA 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 Rockville, MD?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Rockville, MD police non-emergency line at 240-314-8900 (Rockville City); 301-279-8000 (Montgomery County for after-hours noise complaints). For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 240-314-8330 (Rockville City Community Enhancement and Code Enforcement Division).