Boston, MA Quiet Hours & Noise Laws [2026]
When are quiet hours in Boston, MA?
| Regulation | Details for Boston, MA |
|---|---|
| Quiet Hours | 11PM-7AM |
| Weekends | Typically same as weekdays |
| Enforcement | Police Non-Emergency: 311 |
11 PM - 7 AM
Strict noise limits typically apply during these times.
Boston, MA Noise Rules
What is the noise ordinance in Boston, MA?
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.
Decibel Limit Comparison
| Zone Type | Day | Night |
|---|---|---|
| Residential | 70 dBA (7 AM - 11 PM) | 50 dBA (11 PM - 7 AM) |
| Commercial | Not specified | Not specified |
Note: 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.
Specific Restrictions
- Construction:
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.
- Amplified Sound:
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).
- Animals:
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.
- Vehicles:
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 about Boston, MA Noise Rules
What are the designated quiet hours in Boston, MA?
11 PM - 7 AM. Generally, during these hours, noise should be kept to a minimum to avoid disturbing neighbors.
How loud can I play music in Boston, MA?
Residential areas typically have a limit of 70 dBA (7 AM - 11 PM) during the day and 50 dBA (11 PM - 7 AM) at night. Excessive vibration or bass that is plainly audible at the property line may also be a violation.
Who do I contact to report a noise violation in Boston, MA?
For non-emergency noise complaints, contact the Boston, MA police non-emergency line at 311. For ongoing issues like construction or animal noise, you can also contact Code Enforcement at 311 (Inspectional Services Department).