Ocean City, MD
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Ocean City, MD.
Ordinance 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.
Quiet Hours
Midnight to 7 a.m. (noises audible 50 feet from building)
Police Non-Emergency
410-723-6610Decibel Limits
"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."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Ocean City, MD code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
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.
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.
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.
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
Quiet Hours?
Midnight to 7 a.m. (noises audible 50 feet from building).
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: 410-723-6610.
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Official Sources
Noise Solutions for Ocean City, MD
SolvedBest Gear for Ocean City, MD Residents
Ultrasonic Bark Control
Humane deterrent that emits a high-frequency sound when it detects barking.
Loop Quiet Ear Plugs
The "gold standard" for sleeping. Reduces noise by 24dB without the pain of foam plugs.
1/2" Thick Rug Pad
Essential for the "80% Rule." Adds density to rugs to absorb footfall impact noise for downstairs neighbors.
Hemp Calming Chews
Natural relief for dog anxiety. Perfect for separation anxiety barking or fear of fireworks.
ThunderShirt for Dogs
The best solution for anxiety-induced barking (fireworks, thunder, separation).
Marpac Dohm Classic
The original fan-based machine. Unlike digital loops, this creates real rushing air sound.
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