Salem, MA
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Salem, MA.
Ordinance Summary
Salem, MA's Noise Control Ordinance (Chapter 22) regulates sound, especially in the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall and adjacent areas, with decibel limits varying by time and location. General quiet hours are 11 PM to 7 AM, with specific restrictions on construction and amplified sound. Violations incur fines from $50 to $300, enforced by police, fire, or health officials.
Quiet Hours
Generally, 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM. For amplified sound in the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall and adjacent streets, 8:00 PM to 10:00 AM (68 dB limit). Dumpster filling/emptying is prohibited between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM. Construction noise is prohibited before 7:00 AM.
Police Non-Emergency
978-744-1212Decibel Limits
"Noise levels from operations, including speakers, shall not increase the broadband sound level by more than ten (10) dB(A) above ambient levels measured at the property line. In the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall and adjacent areas, specific amplified sound limits apply: 65 dB between 8 PM and 4 PM (Sun-Fri), and 8 PM to 11 AM (Fri-Sun); 68 dB between 4 PM and 8 PM (Mon-Fri) and 11 AM to 8 PM (weekends/holidays) in certain zones; and 78 dB or 79 dB during the same periods in other specific zones."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Salem, MA code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Work is generally limited to 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, unless approved by the City Engineer. No noise-making activities are allowed before 7:00 AM. No work is permitted on Saturdays, Sundays, or legal holidays without prior approval.
Prohibited from exceeding 65 decibels between 8 PM and 4 PM (Sunday 8 PM through Friday 4 PM), and between 8 PM Friday to 11 AM Saturday, and 8 PM Saturday to 11 AM Sunday in the Essex Street Mall and adjacent areas. Specific zones in the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall have limits of 68, 72, 78, or 79 decibels during certain daytime and weekend hours. Use of loudspeakers/amplifiers is generally prohibited on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays in October in specific areas, with an exception for October 31st from 4 PM to 10 PM.
The Animal Control Officer handles stray dogs, neighborhood nuisance problems, injured animals, and rabies concerns.
Unlawful to use compression, engine, dynamic, or mechanical exhaust brakes that create excessive, loud, or unusual noise, except in emergencies. Violation carries a $200 fine. In designated 'quiet zones,' sounding horns (except in emergencies) and making loud noise or playing music in vehicles are prohibited.
Dumpsters shall not be filled or emptied between 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., unless special circumstances are approved.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
Generally, 11:00 PM to 7:00 AM. For amplified sound in the Essex Street Pedestrian Mall and adjacent streets, 8:00 PM to 10:00 AM (68 dB limit). Dumpster filling/emptying is prohibited between 11:00 PM and 7:00 AM. Construction noise is prohibited before 7:00 AM..
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: 978-744-1212.
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Noise Solutions for Salem, MA
SolvedBest Gear for Salem, 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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