What hours can construction start in a Maryland neighborhood?
Short answer. It depends on the local noise ordinance, commonly 7 or 8 a.m. on weekdays with stricter weekend rules. Check the county or city ordinance for the job site; a building permit does not exempt you from it.
Work it through
You're the contractor. Pick what you'd do, then see how each choice plays out.
You're running a renovation on a quiet residential street. It's 7:15 AM and your crew just fired up the chop saw. A neighbor storms over.
"It's 7 AM! There are noise ordinances! I'm calling the county!"
- Correct
Most Maryland jurisdictions have noise ordinances restricting construction activity to specific hours (typically 7 or 8 AM to 6 or 8 PM on weekdays, with stricter weekend rules). Check the specific county/city ordinance for your job site. Violating noise ordinances can result in fines and generates complaints that reflect poorly on your MHIC license. Good neighbor relations also protect your client from living next to angry people.
- Wrong
Having building permits doesn't exempt you from noise ordinances. They're separate regulations. Being combative with neighbors creates problems for your client who has to live there after you leave. Check the local ordinance, adjust your schedule, and maintain professional relationships with the neighborhood. Your client's permit doesn't override municipal noise rules.
All 9 job-site safety & hazardous materials questions
- When does OSHA require guardrails on scaffolding?
- What does the EPA RRP rule require when you find lead paint?
- Can you remove suspected asbestos during a renovation?
- What should you do when demolition uncovers mold?
- How must renovation debris be disposed of?
- Are you liable for weather damage to an unprotected job?
- Are you liable when someone slips on ice at your job site?
- What hours can construction start in a Maryland neighborhood?
- What should you do when your crew damages a neighbor's property?