Worcester, MA
Noise Code
The official quiet hours, decibel limits, and enforcement protocols for Worcester, MA.
Ordinance Summary
Worcester, MA's "An Ordinance Relative to Excessive and Unreasonable Noise, Chapter 9 § 1A" aims to reduce ambient noise to safe levels, prohibiting excessive and unnecessary sounds that threaten public health, welfare, and quality of life. It outlines restrictions on motor vehicles, sound reproduction devices, and power tools, with penalties for violations.
Quiet Hours
9:00 PM - 7:00 AM (weekdays/Saturdays); 9:00 PM - 9:00 AM (Sundays/holidays for power tools)
Police Non-Emergency
508-799-8606Decibel Limits
"The ordinance emphasizes audibility at certain distances rather than specific decibel levels, though it mentions using an 'A' weighting network for sound measurements."
Measure Noise Levels Instantly
Use our free browser-based decibel meter to check if your neighbors are violating the Worcester, MA code.
Specific Noise Restrictions
Operation of power saws, drills, grinders, lawn mowers, lawn or garden tools, or similar tools is prohibited between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. on weekdays and Saturday, and between 9:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m. on Sunday and legal holidays, if plainly audible 50 feet or more away.
No person shall operate any electronic sound reproduction device plainly audible in a public place at a distance of 25 feet or more from the device or premises. Within a motor vehicle, sound reproduction devices must not be plainly audible in a public place at a distance of 50 feet or more.
No person shall engage in persistent or repeated yelling, shouting, hooting, whistling, singing, or the making of other loud noises between 9:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. if plainly audible 25 feet or more, or so as to annoy persons in residences or public places. This would generally apply to animal noises as well. Animal Control handles general animal complaints.
Operating a motor vehicle's sound reproduction device plainly audible 50 feet or more is prohibited. Using a horn or warning device plainly audible 125 feet or more is prohibited, except to avoid a collision. Operating a motorcycle with a removed or inoperative exhaust system, muffler, or other noise/emission equipment is also prohibited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quiet Hours?
9:00 PM - 7:00 AM (weekdays/Saturdays); 9:00 PM - 9:00 AM (Sundays/holidays for power tools).
Construction?
Usually limited to daytime hours (e.g. 7am-6pm). Check 'Specific Restrictions' above.
Who to call?
Use Non-Emergency Police: 508-799-8606.
Fines?
Commonly range from $50 to $500 for initial offenses.
Noise Solutions for Worcester, MA
SolvedBest Gear for Worcester, 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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