New Bedford, MA
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for New Bedford, MA.
Ordinance Summary
New Bedford, MA noise ordinances, primarily found in Chapter 17, Sections 15 and 17 of the City's Code of Ordinances, regulate unnecessary noise. They prohibit excessive automobile horn blowing between 11 PM and 7 AM and restrict commercial establishment noise in residential areas from 10 PM to 7 AM. Amplified sound in public cannot exceed 70 dB at 15 feet. Habitual animal noise is also prohibited.
Quiet Hours
10PM-7AM (commercial establishments in residential areas); 11PM-7AM (automobile horns)
Police Non-Emergency
508-991-6350Decibel Limits
"Amplified sound in public areas cannot exceed 70 dB(A) at 15 feet. Massachusetts state regulations (310 CMR 7.10) consider a noise violation if a source increases the broadband sound level by more than 10 dB(A) above ambient or produces a pure tone condition."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the New Bedford, MA code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Not explicitly specified in local ordinance. Work in City Streets or Rights of Ways is prohibited from December 15th to April 1st without prior written approval. State guidelines often permit construction noise between 7 AM and 8 PM on weekdays and Saturdays.
Playing portable radios, tape players, or other electronically amplified sound devices is prohibited from public buses, bus stops, public beaches, public parking lots, public streets, malls, stores, and any other public area when the sound exceeds 70 dB(A) at a distance of 15 feet. Motor vehicle radios or sound reproduction systems operated within a vehicle should not create unnecessary noise for anyone other than the driver and passengers.
The keeping or harboring of any dog or other animal which by habitual howling, yelping, barking, or other noise disturbs or annoys a considerable number of persons or neighborhood is unlawful and a public nuisance.
Unnecessary blowing of automobile horns is prohibited between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., except in emergencies. Noises at commercial establishments in residential neighborhoods, including loading or unloading of motor vehicles, are prohibited between 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. if they menace health or disturb sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
10PM-7AM (commercial establishments in residential areas); 11PM-7AM (automobile horns).
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: 508-991-6350.
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Official Sources
Noise Solutions for New Bedford, MA
SolvedBest Gear for New Bedford, 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.