Cambridge, MA
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Cambridge, MA.
Ordinance Summary
Cambridge, MA's Noise Control Ordinance, Chapter 8.16, establishes rules to prevent excessive sound and vibration that could jeopardize public health, safety, welfare, or degrade quality of life. The ordinance outlines specific quiet hours and decibel limits for various activities, with violations potentially incurring fines up to $300.00 per day.
Quiet Hours
6:00 PM - 7:00 AM (general, with variations for specific activities)
Police Non-Emergency
617-349-3300Decibel Limits
"Limits are measured at the property line. Noise exceeding ambient sound by more than 10 dBA at the property line may also constitute a violation. Cambridge also specifies maximum dBA at specific octave levels."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Cambridge, MA code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Construction, drilling, or demolition work is generally not allowed between 6:00 PM and 7:00 AM on weekdays, or between 6:00 PM and 9:00 AM on Saturdays and holidays, if audible 50 feet from the lot line. No work is permitted on Sundays without Police Department approval. Exceptions exist for emergency work. Construction site noise for residential properties has a maximum level of 75 dBA (Lmax) and 86 dBA (Lpeak). Homeowner equipment (e.g., lawnmowers) is generally allowed from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Street performers may not exceed 80 dBA at 25 feet. If sound inside a structure exceeds 50 dBA and is 10 dBA above background, the performer must reduce sound or move. Street performing hours are Monday-Thursday 7:00 AM - 11:00 PM; Friday-Saturday 7:00 AM - 12:00 AM; Sunday 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM. Businesses in business districts can hold acoustic performances without a permit from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with amplification limited to one microphone. Loud music complaints should be directed to the police non-emergency line. Festival permits can allow outdoor music until approximately 11:00 PM.
Excessive, continuous, or untimely barking or the molesting of passersby by any animal is considered a nuisance and requires attestation by five residents in the immediate vicinity. For habitual barking dog problems, contact the Animal Commission during business hours or the police non-emergency line after hours.
The sounding of horns or signaling devices on vehicles is permitted only as a danger warning; unreasonably loud or harsh sounds, or sounding for unnecessary and unreasonable periods, is prohibited. Loading and unloading of trucks have restrictions from 9:00 PM to 7:00 AM (9:00 AM on Saturdays, Sundays, and Holidays) if plainly audible 50 feet from the lot line or in a noise-sensitive zone, with some exceptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
6:00 PM - 7:00 AM (general, with variations for specific activities).
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: 617-349-3300.
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Official Sources
Noise Solutions for Cambridge, MA
SolvedBest Gear for Cambridge, 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.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.