Boston, MA
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Boston, MA.
Ordinance Summary
Boston, MA noise ordinances, under City of Boston Municipal Code Section 16-26 and Air Pollution Control Commission Regulations, prohibit unreasonable or excessive noise. Decibel limits are 50 dBA between 11 PM and 7 AM, and 70 dBA at all other times, measured at residential lot lines. Construction is restricted to weekdays from 7 AM to 6 PM.
Quiet Hours
11 PM - 7 AM
Police Non-Emergency
311Decibel Limits
"Unreasonable or excessive noise is defined as exceeding 50 dBA between 11 PM and 7 AM or 70 dBA at all other hours, measured at the lot line of a residential lot or nearest affected dwelling unit. The Air Pollution Control Commission also regulates noise in business and industrial districts, but specific general day/night decibel limits for commercial establishments are not explicitly provided in the same manner as for residential areas."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Boston, MA code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
General construction, demolition, alteration, repair, and excavation are permitted only between 7 AM and 6 PM on weekdays. Construction devices emitting noise over 50 dBA at a residential lot line are unlawful between 6 PM and 7 AM. Construction devices producing over 86 dBA at 15 meters (50 feet) are generally unlawful, with exceptions for emergency work.
It is unlawful to operate loud amplification devices in motor vehicles (whether moving or standing in a public way), in public ways or places, or in or on residential premises if they create unreasonable or excessive noise (exceeding 50 dBA between 11 PM and 7 AM, or 70 dBA at other hours).
No person owning or harboring a dog shall allow it to be so unreasonably noisy as to disturb the peace. Massachusetts also has nuisance dog laws that can be invoked by citizen petition.
Operation of loud amplification devices in motor vehicles is prohibited. Automobile safety devices (car alarms) that are plainly audible at 200 feet and do not automatically terminate within five minutes are unlawful. Selling or installing modified exhaust systems that amplify noise is prohibited. Motorcycles manufactured after December 31, 1982, must bear a Federal EPA exhaust system label.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
11 PM - 7 AM.
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: 311.
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Noise Solutions for Boston, MA
SolvedBest Gear for Boston, MA 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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